Volkswagen has announced the 2014 Beetle equipped with the turbocharged 1.8-liter gasoline direct-injected engine is now available in the United States at a starting price of $20,295 if you opt for the coupe while the convertible can be yours for at least $25,170. It is important to mention that the customer will also have to pay $820 as destination charges. This engine works as a replacement for the 2.5-liter 5-cylinder mill and has the same 170 bhp output but you’ll benefit from it at 700 revs faster than before. Torque figure has also gone up by 7 lb-ft to 184 lb-ft and is available from 1,500 rpm.
The Beetle 1.8T is equipped with electric power steering whereas the five-cylinder model came with a hydraulic steering system. Volkswagen mentions the model featuring a 6-speed automatic transmission will do 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined while with the five-speed manual the car does 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined.
It should be noted the convertible is available exclusively with the automatic transmission.
Source: Volkswagen
