27 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but it’s a reasonable figure for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Convertible. This isn’t a car designed for frugal commuters chasing every last mile per gallon. It’s a fashion statement, a sunshine-seeking machine, with a healthy dose of nostalgia baked in. The target buyer is willing to trade ultimate fuel efficiency for open-air fun and a distinctive shape that stands out in a sea of anonymous crossovers and sedans. They’re looking for a weekend car, a summer cruiser, not necessarily their primary mode of transportation.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Beetle Dune Convertible achieves 24 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. While the city figure is adequate for its class, the highway MPG is where the turbo 1.8L shows its strengths. That smooth, responsive four-cylinder, coupled with the six-speed automatic transmission, allows for relaxed cruising and surprisingly effortless overtaking. The lower city figure is attributable to the stop-and-go nature of urban environments, which often negates the benefits of the engine’s smaller displacement and turbocharger. A driver who spends most of their time on the open road can reasonably expect to match, or even slightly exceed, the EPA’s highway estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Convertible to be $1,600. This figure is derived from driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, the actual cost will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used (the Beetle Dune Convertible runs perfectly fine on regular unleaded). Drivers who primarily use the car for shorter trips, or those who live in areas with higher gas prices, will likely spend more than the estimate.

Owners who log more highway miles and take advantage of lower fuel prices might see a lower annual cost. It’s a benchmark, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect to see figures slightly below the combined 27 MPG if you spend a lot of time in heavy traffic, frequently accelerate hard, or tend to keep the top down, which increases aerodynamic drag. However, if you adopt a gentler driving style and prioritize highway cruising, achieving the stated MPG is entirely realistic.

Remember that factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the weather can influence fuel consumption. Keep your tires properly inflated, ensure the engine is well-maintained, and avoid unnecessary idling to maximize your miles per gallon.

How it compares

In the realm of small convertibles, the Beetle Dune faces a limited set of direct competitors. The Fiat 500c, for example, offers comparable charm but suffers from a less refined driving experience and fuel economy that’s roughly similar, hovering around 28 MPG combined for the turbocharged Abarth variant. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a sharper driver’s car, offering significantly better fuel economy, closer to 30 MPG combined for the automatic transmission version, but it lacks the distinct retro styling and rear seats of the Beetle. Someone contemplating the Beetle likely isn’t cross-shopping it with a more practical hatchback or sedan, where they could easily find options exceeding 35 MPG combined and still access all Volkswagen fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.8L turbocharged engine is surprisingly sensitive to driving style, especially when it comes to boost. Avoid aggressive acceleration and excessive use of the turbocharger. That quick burst of power is fun to experience, but constant stomping on the accelerator will take a noticeable toll on your fuel efficiency. Instead, focus on smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipate traffic flow to minimize the need for hard braking.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during changes in temperature, as this can significantly impact inflation levels.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it. Modern engines are designed to handle frequent starts and stops without causing excessive wear. Idling burns fuel without moving the car, so minimizing it can lead to tangible savings.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine. Ensure your oil is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and that the air filter is clean. Dirty air filters restrict airflow, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Consider exploring the BEETLE MPG across all years to see how maintenance history impacts mileage.