70 Years of Volkswagen of America

America in the post-World War II era experienced a cultural renaissance in automobiles. Americans were used to large, loud, inefficient cars. However, troops returning from the war, along with Europeans immigrating to America, began importing small cars, such as the Volkswagen Beetle, which itself became a bona fide movie star with the Herbie the Love Bug franchise.

The Start of Volkswagen of America

In 1949, a Dutch entrepreneur named Ben Pon landed in New York with two VW Beetles, planning to show Americans what they had been missing. Little did he know that he would help to start a cultural evolution. Later, in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. was created with its headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. By the end of 1956, the company had found nearly 50,000 customers for its smaller, more efficient, and more affordable Bug (nickname for the Beetle).

Amazing Sales

Americans quickly fell in love with Volkswagen, buying more than 160,000 vehicles by 1960 and 569,696 by the end of 1970. In 2025, Volkswagen of America sold 329,813 cars and crossovers, proving that buyers want affordable, safe, and reliable German cars that are both luxurious and beautifully designed.

A Word from Volkswagen

“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.’”

70 Years Young

Over the past 70 years, VW has become an iconic brand in America, dedicated to vehicles for enthusiasts, families, and buyers seeking a reliable vehicle with great safety and technology. With such cult classics as the Beetle, Microbus, GTI, and the modern Golf R, Tiguan, ID.4, and more, few car companies can say they have had a more positive impact on American car culture.

Great Standard Safety

Thanks to standard IQ.Drive, Volkswagen vehicles are among the safest on the market, with features like Emergency Assist, Front Assist, Travel Assist, Adaptive Front Lighting System with LED headlights, Active Side Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Intelligent Crash Response System, and more. The Intelligent Crash System automatically shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and turns on the hazards in the event of an accident.

Sisbarro Volkswagen Has the Right VW for You

The 2026 Volkswagen models are some of the best the brand has ever produced. And with something for pretty much every buyer, there has never been a better time to buy a new or used car from Sisbarro Volkswagen. The knowledgeable salespeople will not only make you feel comfortable but also ensure you get the best possible price.

Why Choose Sisbarro Volkswagen

Get a jump on summer by getting behind the wheel of a new and used Volkswagen from Sisbarro Volkswagen. Our sales team will work to find you the car you want, and our finance department will help you get the best possible price. When it’s time to service your car or SUV, our service department will work hard to ensure your vehicle receives the best care imaginable.

We thank you for trusting us, and we look forward to serving you soon.

Tags: 70th Anniversary, Beetle, Bus, Heritage, History, Volkswagen of America
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