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 1 through 10 of 102.00

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  Poor car - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Dale Mayhall - October 13 - 8:10 am

  The VW convertible would not shift into overdrive in cold weather for the first twelve miles. Windows squeeked against top. I had to visit the dealer twelve times for repairs in less than a year. I sold the car two days ago.

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  Worst car we have ever owned - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By jpj22 - May 30 - 6:10 pm

  Stay away from this lemon. We got my wife a new one in Aug 2005. That was the happiest day or her life until we got rid of it and then that was the happiest day of her life. Transmission problems, rear side window problems, top problems, sensor problems trim problems. There is no room in the car. I have nothing good to say about this lemon.

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  Volkswagen is a poor Quality Car - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By girlie*girl - March 30 - 10:36 pm

  let me just say that I only thought I wanted a bug :0( it was one of the worst things I have ever done in buying that car. it has noises in the cabin that is so irritating! and the cup holders are NOT convenient.. and The Transmission is a major problem !! and almost everyone that has one has problems with the transmission, volkswagen needs to fix this now!! and recall them because of the transmissions!!!!!

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  Fun in the sun, but stormy reliability. - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By bugawff - March 16 - 7:46 pm

  Traded in my Volvo s60 for this cute top down car. Thought German car would be better than Swedish. Have had the car in for speaker, gas lid, windows, wipers, etc. Everything seems to be falling apart. Had the driver side window fixed about 5 times, they cant seem to get it right. One day on low gas my gas tank lid wouldnt click open, good thing I was close to a dealer and they opened it for me, but couldnt fix it at the moment had to wait 2 weeks for that. Gas mileage is ok, could be better. Trunk space you cant even fit in a beach chair. AND if you are thinking of taking friends with you for a fun ride hope the ones sitting in the back are kids, small kids.

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  Run... dont walk and find another car!! - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By doodlebughi - October 16 - 5:06 pm

  I bought my turbo conv. beetle used in 08 with 39000 miles on it. I starting having problems with the drivers side window not going down within the first year and it just escalated from there. I have since replaced 3 of the 4 windows to the tune of $800 a PIECE! I have just now reached 70k miles and my transmission is shot. It appears this is a very common problem and VW refueses to deal with it or make good on it. I now have over 5k in repairs into this vehicle that is not worth much and my mechanic is saying another 5800k to get it going again. I have loved the look of my car and how fun it is to drive.....BUT, I will Never ever by another VW. what a money pit!!

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  Why I regret buying the 2005 Volkswagon New Beetle - 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By javidiaz - March 30 - 9:21 am

  I made the huge mistake of purchasing a 2005 Volkswagon New Beetle last year. This was a used car meant to be a small retirement gift to myself, and a year later, after 4 visits to the mechanic, $2500.00 dollars in repairs and a looming transmission problem, I am now faced with having to trade this blue nightmare in for a more reliable car. Any smile I had on my face was wiped off by the pure unreliable nature of this vehicle and what this year of driving what I consider the worst vehicle ever made has been to me. I have owned Ford, Dodge, Honda, and never experienced a poorly engineered vehicle until I drove the 2005 VW New Beetle. Heed my review and stay away from these cars.