Over the decades, Volkswagen has unleashed cars that became legends. Hatchbacks that humbled sports cars became milestones on wheels, and along with it, a luxury sedan no one expected but everyone respected. Here are ten Volkswagens that rewrote the rules and made history. 

Volkswagen Beetle

Born from Ferdinand Porsche’s 1938 design, the Beetle outlasted war, political turmoil, and countless design shifts to become the world’s best-selling car by 1972. Produced for 65 years and with over 21 million units built, it captured global devotion like few others, even appearing in cartoons. 

Volkswagen Type 2 (Microbus)

Type 2 became a symbol of counterculture in the ’60s and ’70s, embraced by hippies and adventurers. It served as both a makeshift home and a protest against mainstream consumerism and Detroit’s muscle cars. Its design was inspired by Dutch importer Ben Pon’s 1940s sketch on a Beetle chassis.

Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk1)

The 1976 Golf GTI Mk1 earned its “pocket rocket” nickname with more than just looks. Beneath its humble hatchback shell, it packed 110 horsepower and weighed just 1,785 pounds. That combo launched it from 0–60 mph in under 9 seconds, which was incredible for a compact hatchback in the 70s. 

Volkswagen Jetta (Mk2 and Mk4)

Volkswagen Jetta found its stride with the Mk2 and Mk4 generations. Introduced in 1984, the Mk2 sharpened its lines and structure, eventually becoming VW’s best-selling European model in North America by 1991. When the Mk4 arrived in 1999, it added refinement with tighter handling.

Volkswagen Rabbit (U.S. Mk1 Golf)

Imported in 1975, the Rabbit hit U.S. showrooms during the gas crisis, offering a fuel-efficient alternative just when Americans needed it most. Compact and front-wheel drive, it replaced the aging Beetle without mimicking it. The U.S. version had distinctive square headlights, a detail that later made them collectible. 

Volkswagen Passat (B5 Generation)

The B5 Passat shared its platform with Audi and instantly elevated Volkswagen’s reputation back in 1996. With turbocharged engines, a four-link front suspension, and sleek styling, it proved that a family sedan didn’t have to be dull. It delivered German engineering without the luxury price tag. 

Volkswagen Scirocco (Mk1)

Named after a hot Sahara wind, the Scirocco had a sleek design and dynamic performance. It debuted in 1974 with a design by Giorgetto Giugiaro, replacing the Karmann Ghia’s curves with sharp angles and front-wheel-drive performance. Its lightweight construction meant nimble handling, which was often compared to a go-kart.

Volkswagen Corrado

With its active rear spoiler and high-tech performance, the 1988 Corrado was a radical step forward for Volkswagen. Sporting supercharged G60 and VR6 engines, it was as fast as it was innovative. Ignored in its time, the Corrado has since earned a cult following for its bold design and engineering.

Volkswagen Phaeton

The 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton was a stunning luxury sedan, complete with a W12 engine meant to challenge the S-Class like the Mercedes-Benz. While its top speed was electronically limited to 186 mph, VW’s aim wasn’t to top speed records but to show the engineering mastery behind it. 

Volkswagen Touareg (First Generation)

Uniting luxury with off-road toughness, the 2002 Touareg stood apart in VW’s lineup. Co-developed with Porsche, it conquered mountains and highways alike and with ease. The 5.0-liter V10 TDI model even towed a Boeing 747 in a striking publicity stunt, proving it had the muscle to match its elegance.