Volkswagen Beetle value and depreciation
Known for retro styling on golf underpinnings.
Depreciation curve
We class the Volkswagen Beetle as a mainstream in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 66% after three years and 53% after five. Solid volume sellers from established brands. Around two thirds of the price left after three years.
Retention table
| After | Retained |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 82% |
| 3 years | 66% |
| 5 years | 53% |
| 7 years | 41% |
| 10 years | 28% |
Estimates for a new purchase at list price; retail basis, trade-in ≈ 12% under retail.
The modern Beetle sold in SA in two generations from around 2000 to 2019, sharing Golf underpinnings. It was always a style purchase rather than a volume seller, and used values are modest compared with the Mini it competed against.
Beetle against its rivals
Volkswagen Beetle: common questions
Does the Volkswagen Beetle hold its value?
We class the Volkswagen Beetle as a mainstream in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 66% after three years and 53% after five. Solid volume sellers from established brands. Around two thirds of the price left after three years.
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All figures are modelled estimates for planning, not offers or valuations. Data reviewed 2026.