Volkswagen Says Goodbye Beetle and Hello Special Editions

2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Final Edition

Like a cookout with burgers or a movie with popcorn, when you think of Volkswagen, your mind immediately goes to the Beetle. The iconic car that broke the mold decades ago has been loved and longed for by many. However (and quite surprisingly), Volkswagen has announced that the brand will be saying Auf Wiedersehen to the Beetle next year.

Yes, you read that right: no more Beetles. After almost seven decades, production will end at the Puebla, Mexico plant in July 2019. Volkswagen has not been shy about their intention to be a “family-focused automaker,” and it looks like the Beetle just doesn’t make the cut now that there are new Tiguan and Atlas SUVs in the lineup. There’s even a new and vastly improved Jetta sedan.

But before you get too sad, Volkswagen has announced they will be offering two special edition Beetles to commemorate the end of this era. Available as a coupe or convertible, the Final Edition Beetle will be the last of its kind. We are loving the photos they’ve released of the beige “Safari Uni” color and the “Stonewashed Blue” color, which is a nod to both the 1970 “Jeans” Bug and most recently seen on the 2016 Beetle Denim. Don’t worry, you can also get one in white, black or grey, but where’s the fun in that?

Almost as exciting as its quintessential exterior design are all of the features they’ve packed into the interior. All Final Edition models are equipped with standard keyless access with push-button start, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with unique “Beetle” clip, automatic climate control, a glossy black center console, and three-color ambient lighting. The SE models feature cloth and leatherette tufted seats, but if you upgrade to the top SEL model, you’ll get the gorgeous diamond-stitched leather upholstery that’s pictured below.

Both the Final Edition SE and SEL models get their fair share of in-car tech as well. Featuring a large 6.3-inch full color touchscreen display, you can enjoy a three-month trial subscription to satellite radio and Volkswagen’s Car-Net® App-Connect smartphone integration. You’ll have to ante up for an SEL model to get navigation, Car-Net Security & Service, and the Fender premium audio system, though.

And finally, you don’t have to sacrifice the latest driver-assistance technologies either; SE models include standard Blind Spot Monitor Rear Traffic Alert and the SEL models add standard front and rear Park Distance Control.

Volkswagen has not yet announced when the Final Edition Beetles will hit the dealership lots, but they have said that pricing will begin at $23,045 for the coupe SE models and $25,995 for SEL models. Convertible pricing starts at $27,295 for SE models and $29,995 for SEL models. Fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway (29 mpg combined).