Overview & Reviews

Changes for 2005 include a new optional six-speed automatic transmission with the 2.0 and 1.8T engines, a standard MP3 connector for the radio and a satellite radio (either XM or Sirius) option. The 1.8T engine gets squeaky-clean with a ULEV emissions rating. Color changes (always an important factor in any New Beetle purchase) are as follows: Shadow Blue replaces Galactic Blue, Tornado Red replaces Uni Red, and Blue Lagoon is no longer available.

• Cute yet classic styling, range of engine choices, long list of standard features, excellent crash test scores.

• Tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room, Turbo S model priced much higher than comparable performance coupes.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 102.00

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  Bugs have "bugs" - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Brian - December 10 - 8:20 am

  All bugs have a problem with the radio, amp drains battery.All have seat belt light prblems.Convertibles have convertible top problems the top come apart around the window.The floor mat hold downs pop off. Vw and board walk have been contacted on these issue and they give me a different story everytime you talk to them. We have a grey convertible and a yellow hard top both 2004.

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  Fun Car - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Joe - November 1 - 2:46 am

  Dealer delivered on all promises. Car came with zero delivery defects. Handles great, fun to drive, looks good, and gets great gas milage. Its a blast to drive and I look forward to going places in it. With the reliablity rating from Consumer Reports, I was a little worried, but it seems as if all the "bugs" are out of the New Beetle with the 2005 model, and so far its 100%. Get one, youll love it, especially the convertible!

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  My dream car! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Florida Nancy - October 21 - 6:36 am

  Ive wanted a Bug since they came out in 1998, but was scared away by the bad repair records. I finally couldnt stand my 03 Camry anymore (what a lousy car!) and traded it for my little silver Beetle. Its terrific and has exceeded my expectations. Dont be afraid of those earlier years bad reviews. The 2005 is perfect. And many extras are standard on this car.

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  2005 Volkswagen Beetle - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By arlene - October 18 - 1:50 am

  I love this car. But here are the negatives in order of importance: Poor visability when backing up. Paint chips off easily inside and out. Problems with flaps and windows (recall).

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  Why I wont buy another VW - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By DrRix - September 23 - 12:40 am

  I have been leasing the 05 VW New Beetle Convertible, a special edition in dark flint with a red top, red wheel trim, red leather seats. Ive never gotten more compliments, and never driven anything that completely feel apart on me before, even when I had an old Toyota truck with no power steering and a leaking oil tank. Parts just fall right off this car - seat headrests, the glove compartment handle, the sideview mirror adjustment knob, random plastic parts that I dont even know where they came from. German cars used to be good, but these arent made in Germany anymore, and they are CRAP. Dont buy!!

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  Fun Car to Drive - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Linda - September 17 - 1:40 pm

  I purchased this car on a whim and never regretted it! It is a fun car to drive and people are always coming up to me in parking lots and asking me how I like my convertible." I dont like it", I say, "I love it!" Every time another New Beetle convertible passes me the driver will wave and I will wave back. On the more practical side, the car gets about 26 mpg around town, and around 30 on the highway. I have been able to fit an entire JV football team defensive line in the car, and during lacrosse season the pass- through to the trunk allows for long stick defensive players equipment. The New Beetle handles very well in snow and ice, a must for New Hampshire drivers!

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  Convertible Bug - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By sherri - July 12 - 5:33 pm

  The GLS automatic tiptronic 4 cylinder convertible Bug rocks No comparison to the reg beetle, its much more of a car in the way it rides as well as being loaded with the heated seats and outdoor mirrors, air, stereo, etc. It beats the hard top. Im hoping it will last. I love the top and I wish the seats were a bit better, like real leather and with heavy rubber footing throughout instead of carpet. Other than that, its cool. No problem yet with light on dash coming on like the past Beetle I owned, hopefully never will. VW is known for engine sensor light on a lot so the mechanics tell me, and through my own experience as well. Its great in the snow!

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  Dis dream bug - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Dianlyn - April 29 - 3:43 am

  I have had this car for a year now and I love that I put roughly 140 miles a week on it and only have to go to the gas station every 3 weeks.

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  Fahrvergnugen - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By heme3 - April 11 - 2:40 am

  Good 2 go for a second "fun" car. Purchased used from a VW dealer, everything seems to be fine. Solid ride, little 2.0 engine runs on the cheap gas, convertible works very nicely. By far the coolest convertible you can pick up nowadays for $17K. If you want to go fast, buy something else. This car is for cruising. Almost bought the turbo version, used price is about the same, but the 1.8 turbo engine only runs on 93+ octane. Actually, the 2.0 engine seemed smoother than the 1.8 turbo with the automatic trans. 1.8 turbo with manual was best, tho. New 2.5 engine with automatic is perfect, but was out of my price range.

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  Awesome - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By JoAnne - April 8 - 8:33 pm

  I chose the VW Beetle convertible because my grandson loves the "Slug Bug" and wanted me to get one. Once I drove it, I fell in love with it. It is truly the BEST car I have ever had. Comfort, looks, reliability, performance is perfect. I hope we have beautiful weather here in MN so I can drive with the roof down. Love that Sun!!