2016 Volkswagen Beetle Dune

Following the diesel emissions cheating debacle, Volkswagen can really use something to change the public's perception about the company. And the 2016 Beetle Dune (with VW navigation) definitely puts a smile on people's faces, as we found out after a week in the cute car. Designed to pay homage to the classic Baja Bug racers that became a pop culture icon in the 1960s, the 2016 Beetle Dune is one of the first VWs to get the new MIB II infotainment system that finally adds a USB port instead of a proprietary device connection, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Overall, it's a fun car to drive, and just as fun to be seen in.

The 2016 Beetle Dune is one of six trim levels available, starting with the entry-level 1.8T S with a base price of $19,795. In addition to a 1.8-liter, turbocharged 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission, the S comes standard with a rear spoiler, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, automatic headlights, power windows, six-way manual adjustable front seats with lumbar support, a trip computer, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Tech includes Bluetooth for phone and audio, and the MIB II Composition Color head unit with a 5-inch touch screen and AM/FM radio, CD, and USB and aux-in ports. Like all other 2016 Beetles, the S also has the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard equipment, which applies the brakes when a collision is detected by the airbag sensors, so that the car can be immobilized to reduce the chance of additional damage. What about install a Car DVD?

The 1.8T SE starts at $21,350, and adds 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, heated front seats, heated front windshield washer nozzles, leatherette seating surfaces, three-color ambient interior lighting, a rear view camera, an MIB II Composition Media 6.3-inch touch-screen head unit, and VW Car-Net App-Connect with three months of SiriusXM satellite radio. The SE model comes with a five-speed manual transmission, and adding a six-speed automatic transmission is an $1,100 option.

The Dune model we tested has a base price of $23,995 and adds unique front and rear fascias, a large rear spoiler, wheel arch extensions, a unique spring/damper package, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, LED taillights, front and rear parking sensors, Dune-specific interior contrast stitching, and a six-speed automatic transmission. Our test car also came with a $1,695 Tech Package option that includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a Fender premium audio system, keyless entry and ignition, and a tilt-and-slide sunroof. With an $820 destination and handling charge, the total sticker price came to $26,510. If installing an Android Car GPS in your car, that would be great!