2006 Volkswagen New Beetle Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.26/5 Average
113 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The New Beetle gets a styling refresh for 2006. New front and rear bumpers, headlights and taillamps highlight the exterior changes. Inside, the cabin receives a new console, redesigned instrument cluster, revised sun visors and additional chrome trim. Under hood, last year's gasoline engine choices are dropped in favor of the 150-horsepower, 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine first seen in the redesigned Jetta. Stability control is now standard.

Pros:
  • Cute yet classic styling, long list of standard features, diesel engine option.
Cons:
  • Aged design, tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 113.00
  • Loved It! Hated It! - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    The Aquarius Blue New Beetle with the black convertible top was my dream car so you can imagine how happy I was when I finally bought one. I had the car 3 days before the headlight went out the first time. So it went into the shop...for a total of 6 times over a two year period...for the same headlight! I also had power windows that randomly went down, alarms and lights that went off for no reason and brake lights that sometimes worked, sometimes not. I cannot tell you how disappointed I was by this car. I loved the way it looked. Loved the convertible. But VW completely let me down.

  • Best Four Seat Convertible for the Money - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    We just took delivery on a 2006 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible automatic. The car handles like a dream, is loaded with stock safety features, and puts a big smile on our face when driving. Its fit and finish are excellent. We have had no early onset problems. The 2.5 liter engine has great pickup. The car provides a sturdy and fun ride and has no cowl shake. Our first impression is great!

  • 2006 TDI Tiptronic - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    We scrambled to find a TDI Beetle with package 1 options including sunroof, heated seats, and leatherette interior. My wife drives it about 420 miles a week and is averaging 36-38 mpg in mostly city use. The car got about 42 mpg hwy the one time we had it on the road at 65 mph with A/C on. The 6-speed auto transmission can be shifted manually or fully auto. It shifts smoothly and quietly and the 1.9L turbodiesel spools very efficiently. The ride is a bit stiff, but it is smooth. The seats are a bit of a pain to adjust but the controls work well. Dont expect the luggage room of an SUV, but it is good for groceries and weekenders. We liked it so much we went out and bought a 2004 manual TDI too!

  • My Beetle - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This is the third Beetle I have owned since 1998. The improvements are obvious from the styling to the dropped outside mirrors for better visibility. This car isnt for everyone. Its for fun loving people who like a car that looks like no other, handles great, and performs flawlessly. it fits me to a T and I wouldnt even consider another car on the road today. It is unique.

  • Great Commuter in California - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This is our second Beetle and the improvements are extrodinary. Our previous, 2000 hard top in Cyber Green, was nice but the new 5 cyl engine and 6 speed auto are far superior. Our fuel economy is actually better now, 27 mpg vs. 24 mpg for the 2000. Our only complaint so far is the trunk lid that is tough to close.

  • Not Your Old College Bug - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This car is as fun to drive as it is to look at! People smile and wave and give me the thumbs up, when I drive. When I park, someone almost always wants to ask about my little luxury convertible! The power and handling are very impressive, almost like a small sports car, especially with the Tiptronic transmission! I am very pleased with comfort, handling and performance, but a little disappointed in the gas mileage!

  • Great Car! - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I have driven my Beetle to Orlando, FL. It is great fun to drive, very comfortable, and gets great mileage - 43 mpg. I have had several people comment on the beauty of my car. It has plenty of power.

  • Love my Bug - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This is my 4th VW. My first was a 1974 Super Beetle loved it,Rabbit Convertible fun, 03 Convertible new beetle, and my current purchase is a pre-owned 06 new beetle. Of course the beetle has changed since the early years but they are sooo fun to drive and still after all these years get the heads turning. Everyone loves the bug!I love the tight feel of the new bug,one could almost think they are driving a real sports car! Service is good and I love Bug sailing!(driving with the top down) My only complaint is there is no cargo space limits your shopping!I shall check back later!

  • So Far, So Good - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Well, after swearing I would NEVER own another VW after my experience with my 2000 Beetle, I had to get a new 2006 model. I bought the Gecko Green Beetle, and so far, Im THRILLED with the car. The small changes theyve made to it (cupholders, chrome around vents, exterior lights, 5 cyl engine) have made all the difference. It is like no other car on the road...I just cant stay away from it! It does kind of stink that Im always scared it wont start due to previous experience, but so far so good! Ive had just a few small issues, the rear hatch sometimes takes two tries to open, the speakers rattle pretty badly and the gas mileage is way worse than before.

  • Problems after 30 miles of use - 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I picked my 2006 Beetle Convertible up a few days ago. The very next morning it was making a clicking noise under the dash and stalling. It did this six times in two days. I had to get it towed to the dealer and that was a nightmare which I wont go into. They didnt have any VW loaners so they gave me over to Enterprise rent-a-car and gave me an $11,000 Kia Rio as a rental. I am beyond frustrated. This should not be happening to a brand new car.

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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