It is one of the most famous profiles on the road and proves familiarity breeds contentment with the Volkswagen Beetle.
The model which originally relaunched the car maker after WW2 is now fighting for sales among far less distinctive rivals, and it is all the better for it.
The Beetle range is extensive, based on the stablemate Golf chassis, running to nearly 30 models with a choice of three petrol engines; a 105ps 1.2, 150ps 1.4 or 220ps 2.0, and 110ps 2.0 diesel. Depending on engine they have 5 or 6 speed manual gearbox or 7 speed sequential automatic transmission which can be driven as a manual if desired.
The Beetle is unusual in being available as a hatchback or cabriolet. This year it also gets a higher riding and specially trimmed Dune version.
Our 150 1.4 turbo-petrol is available with manual gearbox and Design is the most popular trim sold in Britain.
With a sound pedigree behind it and a good powertrain beneath, the 150 Beetle Design goes well if not rapidly but economically, and there is potential for more savings with a light right foot. The1.4 litre engine is strong, smooth and flexible making light work of urban and motorway driving and easy changes are seamless and sophisticated.
Match that with a well-weighted and tight turning steering for good manoeuvring as well as delightfully balanced brakes underfoot and you have a car to please both mammas and pappas.
Secondary controls come immediately to hand on the wheel spokes or console and the dials are big and clear if not marked in detail. I liked the straightforward heating and ventilation which worked well and effectively and big infotainment display and buttons.
The oddments room is good though not exceptional. You have a small boot at 310 litres, so most things will end up on the back seat. For occupants the room is tight in the back when you finally wriggle in, but roomy upfront while headroom is good throughout.
Noise levels are mostly modest, the engine making itself heard under load while the tyre noise can become intrusive over bad surfaces.
When it comes to ride, the Beetle does a good job of soaking up the worst bumps and not alarmingly rolling around bends or wallowing over undulations.
You may think it’s too softly sprung but in reality it tends to hold on well, turn with confidence and has no real vices to concern drivers or passengers. It’s Golf underpinnings are evident.
The acceleration from rest is not remarkable but respectable, it cruises along motorways and it can easily return over 40mpg without trying to be economical.
Visibility is good to front and sides, more restricted to the rear when reversing or traffic is overtaking but the air conditioning, good wipers and lights do a good job in bad weather. The Volkswagen Beetle says a lot about itself and more about its owners.
| Fast facts | Volkswagen Beetle Design 150ps |
| Price: £20,940 | Insurance group: 18E |
| Mechanical: 150ps 4cyl 1.4 turbo-petrol, 6sp manual | BIK: 23% |
| Max speed: 126mph | 0-62mph: 8.7 seconds |
| Average fuel consumption: 38mpg | CO2 emissions: 134gkm |
| Luggage capacity: 310 litres | Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles |
For: Styling, sophistication, ease of driving, ride
Against: Small rear seating and boot, some visibility concerns.
