Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible
23 MPG The 2010 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible is EPA-rated at 23 MPG combined (20 city / 28 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 652 gallons, $2087 a year in fuel, or $0.139 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2003–2010 run it averages 22.7 MPG, essentially flat across 8 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.109 | $1087 | $1630 | $2174 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.130 | $1304 | $1957 | $2609 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.139 | $1391 | $2087 | $2783 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.152 | $1522 | $2283 | $3043 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.174 | $1739 | $2609 | $3478 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.196 | $1957 | $2935 | $3913 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.217 | $2174 | $3261 | $4348 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2700 | 386 | 1 |
| 2009 | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2700 | 386 | 2 |
| 2008 | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2700 | 386 | 2 |
| 2007 | 22 MPG | 19 | 28 | $2850 | 404 | 2 |
| 2006 | 22 MPG | 19 | 28 | $2850 | 404 | 2 |
| 2005 | 23 MPG | 20.3 | 28 | $3038 | 387 | 4 |
| 2004 | 23 MPG | 20 | 27.5 | $3038 | 387 | 4 |
| 2003 | 22.8 MPG | 20 | 27 | $3063 | 391 | 4 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 68 minicompact cars models tracked here, the Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible ranks 14 on current figures, against a class average of 22.5 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Subaru BRZ (23.5), Audi TT Coupe (25), MINI John Cooper Works Convertible (28), Fiat 500 (28.5), Fiat 500 Abarth (28.5).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 386 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 5.8 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible get?
The 2010 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible is rated at 23 MPG combined by the EPA — 20 city and 28 highway. Across all 8 model years in the database it averages 22.7 MPG, ranging from 22 to 24 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible cost in fuel per year?
At 23 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 652 gallons — roughly $2087 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.139 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2010 model is $2700.
Has the Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible become more efficient over time?
Barely. It sits at 23 MPG today against 22.8 in 2003 — essentially flat across 8 model years, with efficiency gains offset by weight and power creep.
Is the Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible efficient for its class?
It ranks 14 of 68 in the Minicompact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 22.5 MPG. That is 0.5 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.