2001 Volkswagen New Beetle Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.87/5 Average
107 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Optional 17-inch alloy wheels can be ordered on GLS 1.8T and GLX models. Exterior mirrors are larger, high-intensity discharge headlights and a Monsoon sound system are available, and all New Beetles benefit from redesigned cupholders and a trunk entrapment release button. Rain-sensing wipers and a self-dimming rearview mirror now come on GLX models.

Pros:
  • Cute yet classic styling, excellent crash-test scores, affordably priced, turbo model is fun to drive.
Cons:
  • Compromised rear seat/cargo capacity compared to Golf, could use a stiffer suspension.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 107.00
  • Disappointment - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Int. door lining peeling off, sunroof side strips both broke off no apparent reason, self air filter change extremely difficult, passenger side head light out before 30K miles, dealer stated 2-3 sets brake pads replaced on rear before replacing front ones, replacement remote key overly expensive, underside of front driver side head rest separated (why?), disconnect battery & to many things to reprogram, expensive windshield replacement, fog lens cracked & entire light unit replacement vs lens only, gas mileage should be higher for such a small car, & front arm rest latch broke early on & 24K warranty was a joke.

  • I Wouldnt Recommend This Car - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Though I love the looks and the "feel" of this car, I have had nothing but problems with it, mostly due to the electrical system. Within the last month I have had to drop approximately $2000 into repairs and the car only has $82,500 miles. I would not recommend this car to anyone!

  • Where to Start? - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Wow! For such a cute car it has been terrible when it comes to repairs. Cat. Converter, alternator, Intake valve, check engine lights, oil pan, rear brakes, rear taillight, headlamp replacements, front spoiler, trunk latch, key replacement, cup holders, window regulator, peeling door, seats stain, interior panel lights, airbag light, small sun visor, loud engine on the highway, not as good on gas as you would think. Im sure theres more. It seems nit picky, but really the issues are extensive. I had a 1995 Jetta and it was awesome!!! But this beetle is impossible. We want to sell it, but feel guilty passing it on to someone else! Maybe VW will buy it back, lol.

  • Bug for Graduation - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    the bug was bought to save fuel. It was boughtto comute to work & school. Four inches of clearance does not let it come to the ranch. It is a Cute city Car. Insurance is cheaper on ford big truck

  • Love my TDI Bug! - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Had it for over a year and still LOVE my bug. Its so much fun to drive! The power steering, power brakes, cruise control, fully adjustable seats, drive by wire accelerator, and everything just makes driving it effortless. The TDI engine is great for turning heads at stop lights (noisy diesel idle in a car!), and yet quieter than a gas engine while youre cruising at highway speeds (which is great for listening to classical music). Not to mention the incredible torque the TDI has for quickly accelerating from a stop or going up hills. Fun, fun, fun!

  • Cheaply made - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    A joy to scoot about in and to park. It has had one thing after another break off in the car. It seems that they did not have the correct recipe for plastic. To replace costs $40.00 for each broken item. The trunk brake light has been replaced twice at $129.00 and this one has cracked apart. I am the only one driving the car. The cloth front seats are grossly stained, the explanation being that they got wet once.

  • Never ever again will I buy a VW (any) - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    1st Beelte had a bunch of issues (a/c, batteries would never last over a few months, oil leaking - had to do a major repair, then sold it). Second, a 2001 with 70k, has had more issues than I can possibly recall. I must have spent over 7k withing a 9 month period. Ridiculous. The major problem I have is with the dealerships. Theyll diagnose something is wrong, you get that done, the car still has the same issue and then they will tell you "Oh, well, then, it must be something else" Replace drivers seatbelt buckle, both windows regulators, cam shaft adjuster, turn signal relay, inner tie rods, valve cover gasket, pcv hose, door latch and list goes on: all major $$$ repairs.

  • Fun, Reliable - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have the base 2.0 liter, GLS, 5- speed. No problems except for the power window holding clips, which were replaced under warranty. The car is fun, stylish, economical and reliable.

  • NOT FUN FOR LONG - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I bought this car just over a year ago. I have never owned an auto with such poor reliablity nor have I dealt with a company that has such poor customer service. If you are thinking of buying a VW, I urge you to think again. I have owned many cars and none have been as poor in service as the New Beetle.

  • Im sold on the Beetle - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The Beetle has been an unbeatable vehicle for me. As a college student, I needed something reliable and relatively inexpensive. The Beetle requires little maintenance and is fuel efficient. It even has enough space to move ALL my belongings between dorms/apartments, even running well hauling a UHaul across the country to move me to my first job after graduation. My Beetle now takes me around the city during the week and into the mountains with my bike on the weekends. I cant imagine driving any other vehicle.

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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