2004 Volkswagen New Beetle Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.36/5 Average
245 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2004, the New Beetle is no longer available in GLX trim. There's an improved TDI engine and restyled 16- and 17-inch wheels. Turbo S models get uniquely styled 17-inch wheels as a late-year addition. New safety features include head curtain airbags and upgraded head restraints. The Monsoon audio system is now standard on the GLS and new GDL headlights are optional. Later in the model year a fixed rear spoiler will replace the power-operated unit and a CD player with MP3 capability will be added. Convertibles get new exterior colors and color combinations. All Beetles get a new fuel cap warning light this year. TDI models can be equipped with a Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), which is a six-speed manual transmission with electronic control of the clutch and gearshifting. It can be operated in full automatic mode, like a traditional automatic, or shifted manually like a Tiptronic.

Pros:
  • Cute yet classic styling, range of engine choices, long list of standard features, good crash test scores.
Cons:
  • Tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room, high price of Turbo S model.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 245.00
  • The best of everything - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have owned virtually every American car and the better German sedans. I have never had a car "draw a crowd" of admirers like my new VW convertable. The design is perfect - the head room and leg room is more than in my SUV - not to forget that 12 or 13 gallons in it does what 30 gallons used to do.

  • Fun Fun Fun - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I bought a 2004 VW Beetle Convertible in Sept. 2003. I had a sunflower yellow Beetle prior to it for 4 years.

  • Love my BHAPPY car! - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    My second New Beetle. This 2003 Aquarius color convert has none of the electical quirks of my first 98. Ive had it now for 9 months and have been nothing but happy with it...in New England weather. Added weight of the top makes it even more stable for slippery driving. Love that top down!

  • drove it, bought it, love it. - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    im 48, retired, and this is the least expensive car ive ever purchased since getting out of school. i still have and love my v-8 landcruiser, but i drive the beetle as much as possible --- more fun for the buck than any vehicle! i thought it might just be the 6-speed that was so much fun, so i considered trading for a 350z or an rx8 --- drove both ---no way! beetle is more comfortable, roomy, smooth, and makes me feel smart for saving so much money. its clearly not the best performer you can buy, but unless you have a need to race everyone on the road, its satisfying. this is a great car and an unbelievable value.

  • They aint like they use to be! - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Interior upholstry impossible to clean. Interior door handles peel - very poor quality of rubber coating. They dont make them like they use to.

  • Customer VW 1998 tdi beetle - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The car has been one of the better vehicles that Ive owned and operated and have put on a lot of mileage. The fuel efficiency is very good and the beetle has been very reliable.

  • Love the bug - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Initially had some problems with the top. The problem has since been fixed and works perfectly now. A little bit of trouble at first in getting the boot on without a lot of elbow grease and sweat. Now its easy. Theres not a lot of storage space in the car since I used up the arm rest with the CD player but the trade off for the wonderful sound system is worth it. The back seat is great for groceries but forget passengers for anything more than a short ride. Riders sit low at a 90 degree angle with not a lot of leg room. I bought the wind screen so that uses up the back seat anyway but its a worthwhile purchase.

  • Punch Buggy, MellowYellow - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I love my VW! It is stylish, fun, comfortable and cute. It has enough room for two adults and two small kids, as long as luggage is not a priority but it isnt a car for a long trip for other than two. The back seat is too upright but there is plenty of room in the front. The fit and finish is excellent and the top is tight and dry. Overall, it is the most fun car I have even owned.

  • Beetle - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Weve only had this car for a month, but I loved it from the minute I got it. Its so much fun to drive especially with the top down.

  • Its Just Fun! - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have a red/black 2004 1.8T 5spd and love it! Great looks, sporty, fun to drive with top up or down. Glad I got the manual. Love the 17 inch tires and alloys. Heated seats are super. Dont expect any trunk space. So far very reliable. Great car for the money.

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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