The Beetle has reached the end of the road as Volkswagen of America has announced the iconic model will be going out of production in 2019.
Volkswagen is marking the occasion by introducing a Beetle Final Edition which will be available as a coupe and convertible. The model draw inspiration from the 2003 Beetle Última Edición (Last Edition) which celebrated the end of first-generation Beetle production in Mexico.
As a result, the 2019 Beetle Final Edition will be available in two unique colors – Safari Uni and Stonewashed Blue – which pay tribute to the Beetle Última Edición which was only available in beige and light blue. Customers can also order an assortment of other colors including Pure White, Deep Black Pearl and Platinum Grey.
The Final Edition SE features a modestly revised exterior with body-color mirrors, a sunroof (on the coupe) and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Bigger changes occur in the cabin as the model has cloth and leatherette seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a unique Beetle clip. The model also has a special Safari Uni dashpad with a kaeferfach glovebox (Beetle bin) that echoes the “color-matched interior treatments in the Última Edición.”
The model also comes equipped with stainless steel pedals, an automatic climate control system and ambient lighting. Other highlights include a 6.3-inch Composition Media infotainment system, gloss black trim and a keyless entry system with a push-button ignition.
The Final Edition SEL is more luxurious as it has Bi-Xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. The model also has unique 18-inch alloy wheels that mimic the wheels installed on the Beetle Última Edición.
The interior largely carries over from the Final Edition SE, but the SEL variant has diamond-stitched leather seats and a Discover Media infotainment system with GPS navigation. The model also comes standard with a Fender premium audio system.
Besides the aforementioned changes, all Final Editions will have a unique Beetle badge on the tailgate. It replaces the traditional the Turbo badging.
Regardless of which model is selected, all 2019 Beetles will be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 174 hp (130 kW / 176 PS) and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque. It will be paired exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2019 Beetle Final Edition SE coupe will start at $23,045 while the convertible variant will retail for $27,295. The Final Edition SEL has a base price of $25,995 for the coupe and $29,995 for the convertible.
In a statement, Volkswagen of America CEO Hinrich Woebcken said “The loss of the Beetle after three generations, over nearly seven decades, will evoke a host of emotions from the Beetle’s many devoted fans.” He went on to say there are “no immediate plans” to replace the Beetle, but added “Never say never.”
Note: Prices exclude an $895 charge