When Volkswagen brought back the classic Beetle Convertible this year, it was inevitable that car lovers would want to get an up-close look at it during the 2013 New York International Auto Show.
For automotive writers, the most interesting model in the Volkswagen Convertible Beetle line is the diesel variant. To get an up close look at the diesel leading up to NYIAS, I had a chance to drive one for a week.
When the larger, modern Beetle returned for the 21st Century, it became an en vogue pick for both older drivers reaching for some nostalgia-driven drivers who wanted a cuter car. As I said when I originally reviewed the car, the 2014 Beetle Convertible keeps much of the re-created Beetle’s appearance while adding the option of letting the wind whip through your hair.
The standard convertible comes with a 2.5 liter 170 horsepower five-cylinder engine or a 200 horsepower turbo four-cylinder. But, the most intriguing option remains the 140 horsepower TDI turbo diesel.
The advantages of diesel engines are numerous, and most American drivers have no clue about the upsides. They’re more efficient than standard engines, improving mileage and overall energy output. They’re more reliable because they don’t need a high powered electrical ignition system. They run cooler, cleaner and longer – all while being easier to supercharge.
Still American drivers often avoid diesel engines. There’s outmoded fears of diesels not starting in cold weather, of being too heavy or too old-fashioned. That’s all wrong, of course – but there hasn’t been an intense diesel campaign to set everyone right. Meanwhile, the ever-rising cost of diesel fuel doesn’t help.
Regardless of all this would-be anxiety, the diesel Beetle is a joy to drive. Quiet, smooth and amply powered, it’s a version of the Beetle Convertible without a significant weakness. NYIAS visitors considering picking up this convertible should break out of the diesel anxiety and give this model a shot.
This VW Beetle is not the most affordable “economy car” on the market, starting at $24,000. But, the 2013 Convertible model has evolved far behind its cheap ancestor.
GALLERIES: Check out images from Day 1, Day 2 and Day 3 of the New York International Auto Show 2013!
COVERAGE: See all of CraveOnline’s coverage from the New York International Auto Show 2013!
