Volkswagen Beetle Could Be Axed
As iconic as the Volkswagen Beetle is, it may not be long for this world.
According to a recent report from German publication Der Spiegel, Volkswagen is cutting costs and looking for ways to produce more models based on the same platforms and powertrains, like other automakers. As a result, some of its models are getting the axe, like the Eos that ends production this year. The company also has plans of cutting the three-door Polo from the lineup so that only the five-door variant is available, but the biggest news is that the Beetle could be next on the chopping block.
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The company is targeting a five-billion euro cut and by eliminating the three-door Polo alone, it saves 200-million euros. The Volkswagen Beetle was a good seller for the brand when it was reintroduced in 2002, moving 49,549 units that year. Sales peaked the following year at 56,971 and has been on the decline since. The company did see a boost in 2013 when sales reached 43,134 but last year’s numbers dropped down to 29,182.
To put that into perspective, the Jetta sold 160,873 units in the U.S. last year, nearly four times as much as the Beetle. Expand those sales figures to cover the entire world market and you can understand why Volkswagen might have its sights set on ejecting the Beetle from its lineup.
[Source: Der Spiegel via Autoblog]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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For the love of God, move the engine TO THE BACK of the Beetle already before it's too late. If people want a front wheel drive, they can (and do) buy a Toyota or Daihatsu or anything else.
I own a 2014 R-Line. My favorite Car ever..... It kicks ass...How many of you actually have driven a Beetle R-Line? Before you knock it.. TRY it! My Car has not depreciated at all in a year...Amazing! Better gas mileage than advertised. Wonderful handling and it is fast! Ignorance is not bliss...Make sure you know what you are taking about. This rumor has already been put to rest. More beetles in 2016. I know I talked to VW exec. If they do quit making Beetles: my car becomes more valuable. I want to see the all wheel drive 300 hp model made! Peace and VW! So far it is a very reliable machine! My Toyota is broken ! LMAO!