Overview & Reviews

The Volkswagen New Beetle was the cute car that started the retro-futurist design craze. It was a modernized version of the legendary VW Beetle and struck a chord with consumers who had grown tired of standard conservative car designs and had fond memories of the "Bugs" from their youth.

But that was 1998. As more than a decade passed without a major redesign, the New Beetle started to seem like a retro version of itself. With sales dropping steadily, VW decided to discontinue the New Beetle after the 2010 model year. A redesigned model, just called the Beetle, debuted a year later.

Shopping for a used New Beetle is pretty straightforward. It didn't change much, so you can shop mostly on price and mileage, though paying attention to engine availability through the years will likely be useful.

Most Recent Volkswagen New Beetle
The first-generation Volkswagen New Beetle was produced from 1998-2010. It was initially only offered as a two-door hatchback, and the convertible showed up for 2003.

Although the New Beetle was based on the Golf platform from the late 1990s, it had less interior space than today's Golf (and the '90s Golf for that matter) as well as most other compact hatchbacks. The front seats were roomy, but the same couldn't be said of the back. Trunk space was tight in the hatchback and even tighter in the convertible. The convertible came with a power-folding top as standard.

Models up to 2005 used the GL, GLS and GLX designations to reflect the various trim levels, as well as a standard 115-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual was standard on the Volkswagen New Beetle, with a four-speed automatic usually optional. A 100-hp 1.9-liter turbodiesel was also offered (the TDI trim) until the end of 2006, when it failed to meet new emissions regulations.

Until the last few years of its lengthy life, turbocharged gasoline engines were a big part of the New Beetle's trim lineup. Sold from 1999-2005, the New Beetle 1.8T was powered by a 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder, which put out 150 hp. From 2002-'04, VW included the Turbo S trim in the coupe lineup. It was equipped with a retuned 180-hp version of the 1.8T turbo engine and a six-speed manual transmission. For 2006 and thereafter, the only gasoline-powered engine available was a 2.5-liter five-cylinder that produced 150 hp and was coupled to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.

As the years wore on, Volkswagen added a few features like satellite radio, but changes to the equipment level were light, as the car was pretty well-equipped with items such as air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and in later years, heated seats.

Volkswagen released several special-edition models, though, including limited-edition colors and trim packages. For 2002, VW added a Sport edition, which essentially was a 1.8T with a five-speed manual, 17-inch wheels and a leather interior.

In reviews, we found that the Volkswagen New Beetle excelled at what it was built for -- cruising and being seen in. It was a good choice for young singles or retired folks who only rarely needed a backseat, but other hatchbacks were far more practical. The original base engine was pokey and unrefined, so finding one of the turbocharged units would be a wise idea. The subsequent five-cylinder offered just as much power as the previous turbocharged engines and was more efficient, but wasn't as energetic and sapped some fun out of the Beetle. Those interested in the convertible should be aware that rearview visibility is poor with the top up or down.

User Reviews:

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  Grrr!! - 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Grrrr - November 13 - 6:53 am

  I love my car, especially since its paid off. But in september an ignition coil went out., Then in march 2 more went within 2 weeks of each other. Now less than 4 weeks later another one has just gone out. The only thing saving me from driving this car off a cliff, besides the repairs being covered under warranty, is the fact there is only 1 ignition coil left to go out. And VW wont replace it until it fails. I just hope it doesnt happen late at nite or when im on my way to an interview. I just dont need this aggrevation, but since I dont have a job I cant go trade this in. Hopefully the 5th coil will go out soon and I can stop worrying...

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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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  2 bug household - 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Candace2068 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  This is the most wonderful car I have ever owned. My husband liked mine so much he got one too.

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  Cute, Charming, and Economical - 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By Megan - October 15 - 3:00 am

  My 2002 VW TDI bug has been wonderful since the day I bought it. I have only had one minor problem with a valve in the engine. My car is fun to drive and very reliable. Not only are TDI bugs cute, but they also have great gas mileage. I have done a few modifications to my car, such as chipping the engine, which definitely increased the power. I recommend this car to anyone looking for something eye catching, easy to drive, and economical. This is truly a great car.

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  Love my Bug!! - 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By KariF - October 11 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. It is fun to drive, has a lot of power for a small car and gets great fuel mileage. I wasnt sure that I wanted a diesel at first, but now Im so glad I did. I visit the gas station once a month. This car makes me happy every time I get into it. It is also so comfortable to travel in. I love that you feel like you are sitting up very high. I never feel like Im in a small car. I will be keeping this car for a very long time!

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  2006 Volkswagen Beetle - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By sam - October 9 - 6:00 am

  My 2006 Volkswagen Beetle is a great, fun to drive, the engine is peppy with plenty of power, you get a lot for your money in this car. I have only a few concerns, the wind noise. With the CD going youll never notice it though. Also, the cars ride is a bit stiff and it doesnt take bumps well. There is an engine (drivetrain) rattle/noise about 1,500 rpm that seems to get better the warmer the car gets. Overall this is a lot of car for the money. The base price gets you air, electric locks / windows, cruise, and more.

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  Great Car, who needs a hybrid - 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By AJM - October 8 - 2:10 am

  I was surprised by the features and how solid the car is. We have gotten over 50 mpg on the highway but mostly see 44 overall avg. The TDI powerplant runs well in the WI winters and offers power that few gas engines can offer. I purchased used for under 10 grand with heated leather seats, sunroof, 6 disk, 5 speed, alloys, etc. Why waste money on a hybrid - TDI is a "green" alternative.

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  1ST FUN CAR - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
  By YOUNG 68 GUY - September 24 - 3:50 am

  Might be oldest bug buyer of 04. Enter/ exiting very important for this senior; tested many small size convertibles, by far my volks the winner. The quietness with top up (not a rattle) is sedan like. Goose the turbo, wind in my face, smoothly hugging the road...thrilling. Old guy/gal friends are very comfort impressed. Purchased 10 new cars but never before went for a drive just because it was fun !!!