2009 Volkswagen Beetle Features And Price | Convertible Coupe Blush Edition

Even after all these years, the retro styling of the Volkswagen Beetle remains both unique and classic. In addition to providing transportation, owning a VW Bug still makes a personal statement as well. "I am different. I am unique. I follow my own path."

And the 2009 Volkswagen ably carries on the tradition. With its long list of standard features, solid engineering, fiesty five-cylinder engine (the same that powers both the Jetta and Rabbit) and pleasant road manners, the Beetle has more than its distinctive look going for it.

The 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is available as a coupe-styled hatchback or a convertible with a power-folding soft top. In a new development this year, both the coupe and convertible are offered in a single, very well-equipped trim level.

Standard Features And Options:

Standard features on either model includes full power accessories, heated front seats, air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, 16 inch alloy wheels, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and a premium audio system with a CD/MP3 player, an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.

A power sunroof is the only factory option on the coupe. However, available options at the dealer include a 6-disc CD changer (in the trunk), a rear spoiler and 17 inch wheels. For the convertible, a unique set of 17 inch wheels are an available factory option.

There's also a special 2009 Beetle Convertible "Blush Edition" that features a metallic white gold exterior with a red leather interior and red convertible top. The "Blush" is the only new Beetle convertible available with genuine leather upholstery. It also includes a red boot for when the convertible top is down as well as unique 17 inch alloy wheels.

Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:

Powering both models of the front-wheel-drive 2009 Beetle is a 2.5 liter inline five-cylinder engine that delivers 150 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. On the coupe, this engine is coupled with either a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. The convertible comes only with the automatic transmission.

It also should be noted that Beetles sold in California and California-emissions states have met the super-clean PZEV (partial zero-emissions vehicle) emissions standard.

The EPA gas mileage ratings for the manual 2009 VW Beetle come in at 20 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway. Gas mileage on the automatic coupe are nearly identical, coming in at 1 mpg better on the highway.

Safety:

Standard safety features on all 2009 Beetles include antilock disc brakes (ABS), stability control, front-seat side-impact airbags and active front head restraints. In addition, convertibles are equipped with a rollover protection system.

In government crash tests, the 2009 Beetle received four out of five stars for front occupants in frontal impacts. The Beetle also received a perfect five-star rating for front passengers in side-impacts, but only three stars for rear passengers.

Interior:

The feature-laden cabin of the new Beetle is attractive, well-designed and user-friendly. Both the materials quality and build quality are solid. But, no surprise here, prospective Beetle buyers should evaluate their space needs. While most passengers are likely to feel comfortable up front, rear space is on the tight side, making seating comfort on long trips an issue. Cargo space is also fairly limited. The Beetle is probably not a wise choice for those who expect to often have rear passengers or full loads.

Drive:

Like most Volkswagens, the 2009 Beetle is a fairly fun car to drive. While certainly not engineered as a driving-enthusiast's car, the Beetle gets decent performance from its capable engine and responsive steering. And whether driving around town or cruising down the highway, the ride is smooth and comfortable.

Update: Bad Economy Leads To Lower Beetle Prices:

Volkswagen sales have been weak for months now, evidence of a continuing poor economy and an especially weak car buying trend. There's some good deals to be had right now in this very soft car market. Here's some pointers on just how to do it:

How To Buy A New Volkswagen Beetle At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 VW Beetle, here's exactly how to buy one at the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.

Price:

2009 Volkswagen Beetle Coupe:

2.5L, manual: listed retail price: $18,290, invoice price: $17,371
2.5L, auto: listed retail price: $19,390, invoice price: $18,470

2009 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible:

2.5L, auto: listed retail price: $25,990, invoice price: $24,686
2.5L Blush Edition, auto: listed retail price: $26,990, invoice price: $25,630

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2009 Volkswagen Beetle Features And Prices