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 191 through 200 of 245.00
  • VW is Excellent - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The New VW Beetle is a great car it is great on gas, quick if u want it to be, and roomy for 4 people and cargo space. The beetle can be luxurious and sporty. Depending on your style. It is great in the snow, and rain.This vehicle should be one of the hottest vehicles around!!

  • VW Turbo GLS-Bad Resale Value - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    excellent power, but continual mechanical problems which will cause lots of trips to dealer for repairs. Sold vehicle due to continual problems & resale value was extremely low... Car was purchased for $23k and the best bid out of 9 wholsalers was $16. If you purchase this car, you had better plan on keeping it for 4 years or more to offset low resale.

  • Beetle, a Classic! - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Great car!

  • everybodys lookin - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have had VW bugs, both sedans and conv. over the years- a. 56 bug b. 62 bug c. 64 bug conv. d. 71 Ghia conv. e. 78 Super bug conv. I just wanted another, never had a new one; but this time I wanted lots of features and comfort with thew VW bug aura. Everyone in the the whole neighborhood wanted rides in it- they still do! Great fun! Great feeling!

  • the beetle is awesome - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    awesome little car. very fun to drive. the mileage is great. its very responsive.

  • Front & Rear Impact - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    I actually have a 2005 Beetle Conv. I was hit from the rear by an SUV doing @ 40-45 mph. I was at a stop. The impact pushed me into & under the Ford F150 in front of me, and pushed us both through the intersection. My air bag deployed and my rear seat roll over protection deployed. My car was a total loss at an estimate in excess of $21,000. I bought another beetle.

  • This is a nice car! - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    What was most surprising to me was the headroom. Im 64" and I had the opportunity to sit in one. Prior to that I was sure I wouldnt fit. I commute about 100 miles a day twice a week to my job, and find the VW New Beetle to be a viable commuter car. This car is stylish and comfortable when the commute gets tedious. I have two issues with this car: no pop out rear window, and the noise when the sunfoof is fully open. I also have to admit VW created a compromise on the latter issue by creating a sequentially opening window. This way you can open the sunroof partially without increasing the road noise.

  • Over the Moon - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    Recently, I purchased a Harvest Moon Beige VW Beetle Convertible. I must say that I am enjoying this car tremendously. It is so much fun to drive, so much so, that sometimes I am disappointed when I reach my destination. I have not had a problem with my car thus far. The exterior looks great, the interior is "slamming" and the sound system is fantastic. I love the interior lights and the CD player. I am totally satisfied with my purchase. Indeed, when driving this car, one gets lots of stares, smiles, and thumbs up!

  • Better than expected - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
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    I bought this car at the insistance of my wife who spent her teen aged years in a VW bug. I expected a crampled interior and poor performance but was plesantly surprised. Get the turbo!..just dont look under the hood...this car can only be serviced by a VW electronic engineer!

  • cute but problematic - 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I loved my bug but now its gone due to a leak in the roof of the car. Apparently there are drains in the roof that clog easily and with nowhere to go, the water leaks into the car. The dealer and the regional manager say that drains and the need to clean them out is common knowledge. Ever hear of this? The car had numerous problems from the beginning. I went to two different dealers for service and at both locations the car came back with new problems including scratches to the interior paint, wires being switched (trunk and gas latches) and several other annoying issues. Careless and frustrating service and constant problems, my bug is gone!!

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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