Volkswagen has always combined its German engineering prowess and reliability with great-looking vehicles that appeal to a wide variety of drivers. With so many iconic models under the automaker’s belt, these are by far the coolest Vee Dubs to ever roll off the assembly line.
Volkswagen Beetle
When people hear the word “Volkswagen,” the first model that typically comes to mind is the Beetle. The Bug was so incredibly popular in its heyday between 1950 and 1979, that it wasn’t really a surprise when Volkswagen opted to revitalize the beloved car in 1998. The VW Beetle has remained in production ever since, making it one of Volkswagen’s most successful models to date.
While the Beetle only showed up in the U.S. in 1950, its history stretches back to 1934 when the car was in its early development in Germany. The first models were built in 1938, but Europeans couldn’t enjoy the car until 1947 due to the war. Despite the minor setback, the Beetle took off, leaving its mark on automotive history. Perhaps the best thing about this beloved car is that little about its appearance has changed. Even today’s Beetle retains its iconic bug-like shape without feeling dated.
Volkswagen Golf
The lightweight Golf has been in production since 1974, spanning seven generations and various body configurations, and yet it’s remained one of Volkswagen’s most award-winning vehicles throughout its history.
The first-generation Golf was presented as a front-wheel-drive replacement of the popular Beetle, with some incarnations sold as the Volkswagen Rabbit in America. The seventh generation debuted in 2012, which is the generation currently in production. Volkswagen has also produced several electric versions of the Golf over the years, the first of which was as far back as the 1970s.
Today, the VW Golf is the quintessential, modern hatchback that has proven to be the perfect urban car. Between its high-tech innovation and versatility, not to mention its affordable starting price, the Golf will no doubt remain a fan favorite for years to come.
Volkswagen up!
Part of Volkswagen’s New Small Family series, the up! is currently not available in North America, and there’s been speculation as to whether it ever will be. Despite Americans missing out on this urban-chic vehicle, the up! is already proving to be one of the automaker’s most successful and innovative models to date.
Offered in two power options at budget-friendly prices that even struggling students can afford, the VW up! is economical, spacious, and fun to drive. It’s been hailed as 2011’s “Small Car of the Year” by Top Gear Magazine, 2012’s “Compact Car of the Year” by Scottish Car of the Year, and 2013’s “Car of the Year” by What Car? magazine. With so much fanfare in Europe and Latin America, U.S. drivers can only hope Volkswagen releases this impressive feat of engineering to the North American market.
With Volkswagen’s extensive history, it’s easy to put together a list of cool cars that stand out from the pack. Which Volkswagen models are your favorite?
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