The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle (A5 Generation) is the final chapter of the most famous car in history. Production officially ended in July 2019, making these final models highly collectible. Unlike the "New Beetle" (1997-2010) which was cute and round, this generation (launched 2011) has a flatter roofline and wider stance, harking back to the original 1930s silhouette. It is less of a toy and more of a sporty coupe.

Underneath, it is a VW Golf Mk6:

• 1.2L TSI (Petrol): 105 HP. STANDARD The most common import. Efficient and peppy enough for city driving. Uses the 7-speed DSG (Dry clutch).
• 1.4L TSI (Petrol): 150 HP. Twincharged (Supercharger + Turbo) on older models, Turbo only on late models. Offers better highway passing power.
• 2.0L TSI (R-Line): 210 HP. The GTI engine. Makes the Beetle genuinely fast (0-100 in 7.3s). Rare in Kenya.

• Body-Color Dash: The dashboard features painted panels that match the exterior colour, a nod to the old metal dash. It adds character that a Golf lacks.
• 2+2 Seating: It is strictly a 4-seater. Rear headroom is better than the New Beetle but still tight for tall adults. The boot (310 Litres) is usable for groceries but not suitcases.

• Consumption: 14–16 km/l (1.2 TSI). Very efficient.
• Service: Mechanically, it is a Golf. Parts are everywhere. However, body parts (headlights, fenders) are unique and expensive to replace if damaged.
• DSG Box: The 7-speed DSG (DQ200) requires careful driving in traffic (avoid creeping) to prolong clutch life. Mechatronic failures are possible on high-mileage units.

City Style: 145mm clearance is standard sedan height. It handles speed bumps fine if taken slowly. The suspension is comfortable but firm. Visibility is unique—the windshield is far away, and the A-pillars are thick.

5-Star Euro NCAP rating. Late models have Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Traffic Alert. Reliability of the TSI engines in the late models (belt-driven) is much better than the early chain-driven ones.

The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? The individualist who wants a car with a soul and history, not just another white Vitz. Who is it NOT for? Introverts—people will stare and smile at you.