2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.37/5 Average
102 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

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.

Pros:
  • Cute yet classic styling, range of engine choices, long list of standard features, excellent crash test scores.
Cons:
  • Tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room, Turbo S model priced much higher than comparable performance coupes.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 102.00
  • A Little Fun! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    We find the New Beetle Convertible to be one of most exciting vehicles to drive that weve ever had. The turbo is definitely the way to go to increase performance and fun. The vehicle has a solid feel and it cruises down the highway like an expensive sports car. I would recommend the New Beetle to anyone that is looking for a fun, safe and reliable sporty car.

  • A Little Fun! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    We find the New Beetle Convertible to be one of most exciting vehicles to drive that weve ever had. The turbo is definately the way to go to increase performance and fun. The vehicle has a solid feel and it cruises down the highway like an expensive sports car. I would recommend the New Beetle to anyone that is looking for a fun, safe and reliable sporty car.

  • 2005 VW Beetle - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    My first car was a 1957 Beetle and when fuel prices began to rise, I sold my Honda Passport and purchased my 2005 Beetle. I love it, we live in a mountainous region and with four adults in the car, all I have to do is switch my Tiptronic transmission from auto to manual, shift into 5th and I scoot right up the mountains without skipping a beat. It hugs the road and is so much fun to drive, I feel like a teenager again! My 74 year old Father loves to drive it as well and is looking at getting one for my Mom! We are considering another one for my husband, so I can keep him out of mine :) He was surprised at the pep when he drove it for the first time.

  • Fun to drive. - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The VW convertible is fun to drive, fast, and easty to operate. However, the drivers seat does is not comfortable and provide lumbar support for the older nostalgic drivers.

  • Best Convertible on the Market. - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This is a fun car. Ive had convertibles my entire life but there is just something about a convertible New Beetle that is more fun than any of the rest. It has a lot of power and something about the angle and shape of the windshield gives you the illusion of being in a much larger car. Front seat is wonderfully spacious and roomy. Backseat, as Ive stated below, is the major drawback. Im also not delighted with the gas mileage. Im averaging less than 25 mpg .... I was hoping for a little more but even so Id buy the car again in a heartbeat.

  • Sooooo Much Fun! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    More people come up to me and say how much they like my car. It really has personality and is displayed through its design. This is a second car for me as I do need a larger car for family trips. But I use this one for work and play - and nothing makes you feel better than a cool breeze blowing in your face after a long day at work. This car is very easy to maneuver, rides great, is relatively quiet, has a great stereo and all the amenties one really needs. Small trunk space but surprisingly holds more than you would think, and the backseat is small but fine for kids. These are things I knew prior to buying the vehicle, though. Would recommend to everyone!!

  • Love it!!!!! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I just finished a 5000 mile trip with my wife and couldnt be happier. Were not small people either. The vehicle is as advertised and a real attention getter.

  • Cute retro looking car. - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Ive had my 05 Beetle for about 2 years now. I got it with 116k miles and 17k miles on it with no major issues. Although Ive had to replace my battery twice within a year and & half. Major pain to take out and re install. The h1 bulbs for the headlights & fog lights burn out often. Major MAJOR pain in the a** to take the headlights out to put the new bulbs in. The interior dash scratches very easy and the car always smells like crayons in warmer weather. I had to put 1k in replacing the timing belt, water pump, belt tension er, serpentine belt, new tires, brakes just for preventive maintenance.

  • Worst car I have ever owned - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Bought the car new. With only 22,000 miles we have already spent nearly $2,000 on repairs. As the other reviews stated; stuff just FALLS APART. Several sensors have gone bad - that was expensive enough, now the top is busted. More $$ down the drain. I will never buy another VW product.

  • Nothing But Headaches!!!! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Bought my car used with 25,000 miles on it and within first year was met with of course the rear window not working issue that looks as though is a "normal" problem with this type of car. So needless to say $1,000 to fix and then front headlights blew out twice within a few months??? Now dealing with transmission "bucking" issues and passenger window not working and convertible roof not working!!!! help!!!!! NEVER AGAIN BUYING A VW...

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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