Only a handful of car companies could definitely say that their history is closely linked with a particular model. In the case of Volkswagen, it goes a step further: it’s in their very name. Meaning “People’s Car” in German, the very first Volkswagen was the Type 1; though the world knows it best as the “Beetle”. First launched in 1938, it enjoyed a long 65-year production run producing some 21 million examples as a result. Though Volkswagen has long since moved on from the Beetle, producing the likes of the Polo and Golf, it re-imagined the Beetle once more.

Known as the “21st Century Beetle”, this current model dates back to 2011. Originally reviewed back in 2014, Volkswagen Philippines has come up with a kitted version of their iconic retro mobile. Named the Beetle Club Edition, it comes with aesthetic changes to further make it a standout.




Ingress and egress in the Beetle is quite easy despite its two-door configuration. Though the doors look freakishly big for the body size, they’re cleverly designed to open in tight spaces making it easy to get in and out for everyone. Once inside, the Beetle is spacious—more spacious in fact than any other 2+2 coupe in this price range. Granted, the roofline already contributes to generous headroom, but add to that a high-set dashboard and you get all the front legroom you’ll ever need. At the back, the knee room is decisively tighter, but still enough for adults. The trunk, at 310 liters, is enough for the usual grocery run, but fold the rear seats (sadly, it’s not flat), and it can accommodate large stuff such as an assortment of car parts including a set of 16-inch alloy wheels, exhaust, and spoiler.



Like its shape, Volkswagen is largely going for a retro vibe with the Beetle’s interior. The color-coordinated upper dash panel is a nice touch (the bud vase is largely unnecessary). What’s good though is that VW has managed to integrate nifty storage solutions such as an upper lid glove box and a respectably sized bin in front of the shifter. The ergonomics, surprisingly, remains solid though the choice of materials is starting to feel dated. Compared to newer VW offerings, the Beetle is filled with hard plastics.

The new Club Edition has tried upping the luxury factor by adding two new features: a respectable stereo system and leather seats. Sadly, the execution feels half-baked. The touchscreen audio system is horridly buggy plagued with problems such as the sound only coming out of right set of speakers most of the time. Meanwhile, the leather seats don’t feel as plush and premium as the cowhide on the steering wheel and shifter.




Though visibility is largely great all around, the Beetle’s hefty steering reduces its nimble feel, especially in confined spaces. The low speed ride also feels unsorted; feeling a tad too firm for Metro Manila’s countless potholes. As speeds build up, the steering balances itself nicely, only for the suspension to start giving in, struggling through mid-corner bumps complete with the stability control kicking in just to maintain composure. As a result, the Beetle is best experienced as a long-distance driving companion, preferring to tour and cruise as opposed to blasting through canyons.