2003 · Subcompact Car · Diesel
2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel MPG & fuel economy
The 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel is a subcompact car offered in 2 EPA-rated configurations. The most efficient version returns 38 MPG combined (35 city / 44 highway) on diesel. Across the lineup, combined ratings range from 33 to 38 MPG. Efficiency is unchanged from the 2002 model. Among 37 subcompact cars rated for 2003, it ranks 1st for lowest fuel cost. At 15,000 miles a year with $3.70/gal diesel fuel, it costs about $1,461 a year to fuel.
What will it cost you?
Your mileage and prices are saved and used across the site.
Fuel average
The 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel's fuel average is 16.2 km/L (6.2 L/100 km), or 38 MPG combined: 14.9 km/L in the city and 18.7 km/L on the highway.
| MPG | km/L | L/100 km | |
|---|---|---|---|
| City | 35 | 14.9 | 6.7 |
| Highway | 44 | 18.7 | 5.3 |
| Combined | 38 | 16.2 | 6.2 |
How it ranks among 2003 Subcompact Cars
Full class ranking →Annual fuel cost at 15,000 miles and default prices; shorter bars cost less.
Beetle Diesel MPG across model years
Full history →2 EPA-rated configurations
| Configuration | Type | City | Hwy | Combined | Range | Your cost / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FWD · 1.9L 4-cyl turbo · 5-speed manual New Beetle |
Diesel | 35 MPG | 44 MPG | 38 MPG | — | $1,461 |
| FWD · 1.9L 4-cyl turbo · 4-speed automatic New Beetle |
Diesel | 29 MPG | 39 MPG | 33 MPG | — | $1,682 |
Specs (most efficient configuration)
- Fuel
- Diesel
- Engine / motor
- 1.9L 4-cyl turbo
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- FWD
- Passenger volume
- 85 cu ft
- Cargo volume
- 12 cu ft
- Tailpipe CO₂
- 268 g/mi
2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel vs. rivals
Compare the 2003 Beetle Diesel
With any other car from any year, including other Beetle Diesel model years. Type a year to jump, e.g. "2015 Accord".
Same year, other powertrains: 2003 Volkswagen Beetle (24 MPG)
Frequently asked questions
What is the gas mileage of the 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel?
Up to 38 MPG combined (35 city / 44 highway); ratings range from 33 to 38 MPG depending on configuration.
What fuel does the 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel use?
Diesel.
What is the fuel average in km/L for the 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel?
The 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel's fuel average is 16.2 km/L (6.2 L/100 km), or 38 MPG combined: 14.9 km/L in the city and 18.7 km/L on the highway.
How much does it cost to fuel the 2003 Volkswagen Beetle Diesel per year?
About $1,461 at 15,000 miles a year with $3.70/gal diesel fuel, or $9.74 per 100 miles. Use the calculator on this page to plug in your own mileage and prices.