Iconic Volkswagen Beetle: A Brief History
VW Beetle - A Quick Re-introduction
[1998] Introduction of the New Beetle (1st Gen)
Debuted as a retro-inspired compact based on the Golf IV platform. Only available as a two‑door hatchback with base or TDI trims, featuring a 98.9″ wheelbase and modern touchpoints like air conditioning and a dash-mounted "bud vase".
Engine lineup: 2.0 L gas (115 hp) and 1.9 L TDI diesel (90 hp), both with manual or automatic options.
More Flower Power and Tech Upgrades
[1999] Power Upgrades and the Tuning Path Begins
Introduces the turbocharged 1.8L 150 hp engine and launches the upcoming sport variants.
Sales take off: over 84,000 units sold in the U.S. in '99.
[2000 - 2002] High-Performance Variants Emerge
New engine variants include the sporty Turbo S (1.8 L 180 hp), plus VR5, and updates to the TDI.
[2001] introduces the RSi: a hardcore, limited‑run turbo‑VR6 hatch with all‑wheel drive, sporty suspension, and race-inspired styling. Production capped at ~250 units.
New Beetle: More Trunk Space and Convertible!
[2008 - 2010] Special Editions & Final Chapter of 1st Gen
[2008] Anniversary Edition celebrates 10 years-white paint, black roof, special badging.
[2009] "Blush" convertible edition features "white gold" paint and burgundy top/leather, limited to 1,500 units.
[2010] "Final Edition" comes with Aquarius Blue or white, sport suspension, fog lights, and marks end of production.
[2012] Launch of the Beetle (A5, 2nd Gen)
Arrives for the 2012 model year as a more aggressive, modern interpretation, lower, wider, and built on the PQ35 platform with improved trunk (310 L vs 209 L).
Powertrain options: 2.5 L inline‑5 or 2.0 L turbo; Europe also offered various TSI and TDI engines.
VW Beetle Concepts And Early Retirement
[2013 - 2016] A5 Era: Concept Cars & Editions
[2013] Beetle Convertible (A5) joins the range; the yellow‑and‑black GSR Limited Edition debuts at Chicago Auto Show (3,500 built, 210 hp).
[2015 - 2016] More concepts emerge-Wave/Surf Beetle, #PinkBeetle, and rugged‑look Dune model.
[2016 - 2019] Final Refresh & Retirement
[2016] Facelift sharper bumpers, fresh styling to match the Dune and broader market tastes.
[2018] VW confirms the Beetle will end production in July 2019.
[July 9, 2019] Last Beetle rolls off the line in Puebla, Mexico-official retirement.
In Myrtle Beach, the Volkswagen Beetle might not be available brand new anymore, but its legacy still turns heads up and down Ocean Boulevard.
From the sunshine-ready Convertibles to the sporty GSR and rugged Dune editions, the Beetle fits right in with the laid-back, coastal lifestyle. Whether it's the nostalgic curves of the early 2000s models or the sleeker, more modern design of the later generations, Beetles are often seen cruising toward Murrells Inlet, parked near Broadway at the Beach, or rolling down to Surfside for sunset.
For locals and visitors alike, the Beetle isn't just a car, it's a beach day companion, a nod to simpler times, and a standout in the sea of SUVs. Even though our Myrtle Beach dealership doesn't stock them new, these used gems still show up in the local market from time to time, and they're worth a look if you're after something with personality, history, and just enough room for a surfboard and a weekend bag.
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East Coast Volkswagen of Myrtle Beach
8756-C Highway 17 Bypass South
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
- Sales: (888) 319-2870
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