In a surprising turn of events, the Volkswagen Beetle, once a symbol of affordable and quirky automotive charm, has become a coveted collector’s item in India. The latest sale listing of a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle 1.4 TSI AT (A5) in Bengaluru highlights the trend, with the car now priced at a steep INR 30 lakh.
This significant price hike is particularly noteworthy considering that the Beetle was originally priced at INR 27 lakh (Ex-showroom) when it was launched in 2017. The appreciation in value underscores the growing rarity and demand for this iconic model in the Indian market.
A Detailed Look at the Beetle on Sale
- Location: Bengaluru
- Model: 2016
- Ownership: Second owner
- Kilometers Run: 33,000 km
- Condition: Exceptionally clean inside and out, with full showroom records. The vehicle is outstate registered, but an NOC is available.
- Transmission: 7-speed DSG automatic with paddle shift
- Engine: 1395 cc turbocharged TSI, delivering 150 PS power and 250 Nm torque
- Fuel Efficiency: 17.36 kmpl with a 55-liter fuel tank
Despite being a second-hand vehicle, the car is in pristine condition, boasting an immaculate interior and no outstanding maintenance issues, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Online Reactions
The surge in the Beetle’s value has sparked discussions among automotive enthusiasts online. User shamal. remarked on the sharp increase in prices, noting that just two years ago, Beetles were available in the used car market for around INR 10-11 lakh. Meanwhile, hl2dumbass reflected on the irony of the Beetle’s transformation from an everyman’s car to a high-priced collectible. Another user, washim_baig, highlighted the rarity of this particular model, defending the premium pricing.
A Brief History of the Modern Beetle
The Volkswagen Beetle, also known as the Käfer, Coccinelle, Maggiolino, or Fusca in various countries, was reintroduced by Volkswagen in 2011 as a nod to the original Type 1 Beetle. With a more aggressive design, the second-generation “new” Beetle retained the iconic silhouette of its predecessor while modernizing its appeal. Built on the A5 (PQ35) platform shared with the Jetta, the Beetle continued to be manufactured at Volkswagen’s Puebla plant in Mexico until its production ended in 2019.
As the Volkswagen Beetle’s availability diminishes, its value continues to climb, transforming it from a beloved everyday vehicle into a sought-after collector’s item in India. This shift reflects not just a growing nostalgia for the iconic car, but also a recognition of its unique place in automotive history.
