Volkswagen BEETLE
4,026 registered in New Zealand · 1947–2019 · 82% from Germany
The Volkswagen BEETLE is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 4,026 registered across model years 1947 to 2019. It averages 8.2 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 95 kW. Most are petrol-powered hatchbacks with a 2.0L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the BEETLE.
Fuel Types
Volkswagen BEETLE fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%, DIESEL 0%, ELECTRIC 0%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Volkswagen BEETLE vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Volkswagen BEETLE fleet age profile: 2014: 178, 2015: 38, 2016: 26, 2017: 26, 2018: 17.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Volkswagen BEETLE transmissions: 4-GEAR AUTO 12%, 5-GEAR MANUAL 9%, 6-GEAR AUTO 6%, 7-GEAR AUTO 5%, 6-GEAR MANUAL 0%.
Engine Size
Volkswagen BEETLE engine sizes: 2.0L 27%, 2.0L 23%, 1.4L 6%, 1.6L 5%, 1.2L 5%.
Imported From
Volkswagen BEETLE imported from: Germany 82%, Not Known 12%, Japan 4%, New Zealand 1%, Mexico 1%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Volkswagen BEETLE vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Volkswagen BEETLE NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 82, 2023: 82, 2024: 61, 2025: 45, 2026: 20.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Volkswagen BEETLE.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Volkswagen BEETLE regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 973, CHRISTCHURCH: 465, TAURANGA: 165, HAMILTON: 134, DUNEDIN: 126.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Volkswagen BEETLE are there in New Zealand?
There are 4,026 Volkswagen BEETLE vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.1% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1947 to 2019.
How much does it cost to run a Volkswagen BEETLE?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Volkswagen BEETLE averages 8.2 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $65 per week or $3,355 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Volkswagen BEETLE?
The Volkswagen BEETLE is primarily classified as a hatchback in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: saloon, convertible, sports car. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Volkswagen BEETLE cars imported or NZ-new?
82% of Volkswagen BEETLE vehicles in New Zealand originated from Germany. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.