70 Years of Volkswagen in America

The month of October 2025 marks a major milestone for Volkswagen of America —70 years of delivering vehicles, innovation and culture in the United States.

Related: 5 Hidden Features About Your VW You Might Not Know About

A Legacy That Began with Two Beetles

In 1949, just two VW Beetles arrived on a New York dock—a modest start that would spark a remarkable journey. Six years later, in October 1955, Volkswagen of America officially opened its doors. From those humble beginnings, the brand grew to leave a lasting mark on American auto culture.

How VW Changed the Way America Drives

• Legendary models like the Volkswagen Beetle, Volkswagen Microbus (and its modern EV successor, the ID. Buzz), and the Volkswagen Golf helped redefine accessibility, style and driving fun.

• The iconic “Think Small” advertising campaign didn’t just sell cars—it changed marketing and connected with American drivers in a unique way.
• Volkswagen’s U.S. manufacturing commitment—including the Chattanooga, TN assembly plant—underscores its investment in American jobs and innovation.

Why It Matters for You

If you’re shopping Volkswagen today, you’re aligning with a brand built on 70 years of craftsmanship, reliability and forward-thinking design. Whether it’s a sporty Golf, a family-friendly VW Tiguan, or an all-electric ID. model, the legacy lives on in every vehicle.

“For 70 years, Volkswagen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to American drivers and the cars they love,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “The VW family has grown from the first imported Beetles to fit families of all shapes and sizes, always with the original mission of the brand—to be ‘the people’s car.”