For decades, the Volkswagen Beetle has had a reputation as a cool car. From its association with surfers to its starring role in Hollywood’s multiple iterations of the “Herbie the Love Bug” movie, the Beetle is a recognizable part of American pop culture. With the release of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, the car remains a classic while embracing the best high-tech features. Check out these five reasons the 2017 Beetle is cooler than ever.
1. Availability in Pink
Decked out in pink and pushing its own hashtag, #PinkBeetle, this special edition Pink Beetle is a highly anticipated part of the 2017 lineup. As a two-door hatchback, the Pink Beetle exudes charm inside and out. With the exterior, you get not only the cool pink color but also the 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with spokes. In the cabin, you get Pink Club cloth seats with a super hip plaid pattern. Under the hood, the Pink Beetle has a turbocharged engine that kicks out 170 horsepower.
2. An Upgraded Exterior
Though the iconic design elements remain in place, the 2017 Beetle has more aggressive front and rear bumpers. On the 2017 Beetle, the roof has a less prominent dome, the Beetle’s silhouette is decidedly modern. After a different look for headlights in recent years, the 2017 Beetle has more traditional Bug-like headlights. Overall, the effect is a contemporary look that doesn’t get too far afield of the aesthetics that make the Beetle so distinctive.
3. High-Tech Features
High-tech features abound on the 2017 VW Beetle. For starters, there’s the VW Car-Net Guide and Inform system. With this infotainment service, you get weather conditions, satellite radio, navigation assistance with traffic alerts, sports scores, and more. All Beetle owners get a three-month trial subscription to Sirius XM Traffic that includes all these services. Built-in Bluetooth technology provides enhanced connectivity and allows you to stream audio while you drive.
4. Modern Safety Equipment
In areas of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle that you can’t easily see, there are structural improvements to make the vehicle safer. You get seven stability improvement systems and a safety cage made of strong steel with front and back crumple zones. With the Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), you get additional protection. When the air bags deploy, the system shuts down the fuel pump, activates hazard lights, and automatically unlocks doors.
Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear traffic warnings, and a Park Pilot function to help you park in tight spaces. Additional upgrades include a rearview camera that provides drivers with additional visibility.
5. Premium Performance
The 1.8-liter turbocharged engine provides plenty of oomph during acceleration. But for drivers who want more power in their Bug, there’s an optional 2-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged machine that serves up 210 horsepower.
Many drivers enjoy the standard manual gearbox that gives a strong connection to the engine’s power. Because automatic transmissions are so popular, Volkswagen allows buyers to upgrade to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.
With exceptional performance, high-tech features, modern safety gear, and an upgraded interior, the 2017 VW Beetle has much to offer. The Pink Beetle is worth a closer look if you want an eye-catching car.
Image via Pixabay