Volkswagen Beetle

Fuel economy, running costs and specs by model year

The Volkswagen Beetle appears in this database in 4 model years, from 2016 to 2019, offered with gasoline power. Combined economy ranges from 26 to 29 MPG across those years, with annual fuel costs of $2,250 to $2,500 at 15,000 miles.

Fuel economy by year

How it compares

Against the average compact cars in this dataset (about 29 MPG), the Beetle sits roughly 1 MPG below that mark on average, making it a thirstier-than-average choice for its class.

Five-year fuel cost

Fuelling a Beetle for five years at the EPA's 15,000-mile basis costs roughly $11,250 to $12,500, averaging about $11,875 across the versions here. That is the energy bill alone — it excludes insurance, maintenance and depreciation, which for most owners together exceed what goes into the tank.

The range within the range

Economy across the Beetle varies by about 3 MPG between its most and least frugal versions, which run on gasoline. Engine size, turbocharging, drivetrain and even wheel size explain most of that gap, so when you shop a used Beetle check which version you are looking at before comparing its running cost to another car.

How it changed over time

Between 2016 and 2019 the Beetle's average combined economy improved from about 27 to 29 MPG. Redesigns, new engines and added hybrid or electric versions are usually what move the number, so the year you choose can matter as much as the model.

Best year for fuel economy

The 2019 Beetle has the strongest average combined economy in this database at about 29 MPG, while the 2016 is the lowest at about 27 MPG. If running cost is your priority, that is the year to target on the used market; later years may add equipment or safety features instead.

2019 Beetle at a glance

Use the comparison tool to set the Beetle against a rival, or go back to all Volkswagen models.