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 1 through 10 of 107.00
  • bad - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I bought a lemon that i cant lemon law. This car has 32000 miles and has been in the shop for everything but normal wear and tear. Air bags broke twice. oxygen sensor went bad twice also air pump and fuel lines. temperture sensor went once.I could go on and on. The air bags broke twice in 3 months. Do not purchase sooooooo not worth it at all.

  • Great Economy Car! - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    We purchased our 01 Beetle TDI for the sole purpose of wanting a car that was great on fuel and have been relatively happy with it. Its by no means a luxury car. Its loud on the highway, but great on gas. We average mid-upper 30s in the city and upper 40s on the highway. We did manage to squeeze out 54 mpg on the way out to Nevada last summer. I would recommend this car for the econo minded person.

  • Art - evokes past, foretells future - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    VW seemed to solve lots of early-model assembly glitches. This 2001 virtually problem-free, compared to first problem- prone 1999 model. Mileage great - too bad diesel fuel often priced same as premium gas.

  • Constantly breaks down - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    After owning this car for about 2 years, it started giving me problems. I spent over 2,000 dollars within 2 months on repairs before finally getting rid of it. I had to get 2 new batteries (the first one only lasted a year), new alternator, new valves and hoses, turbo cut off valve, battery fuse panel, alternator harness, ball joints, shocks, and new brakes and tires (brakes and tires were understandable, though). Right before I got rid of it, it wouldnt accelerate and wouldnt exceed 5 mph. The sealed system was also frustrating because you couldnt do simple tasks like refill the brake fluid by yourself. You have to take it in to a VW shop and pay for everything.

  • BugabooX2 - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    This is the second beetle that I have owned in a year (lost the first one to an accident) and I love it!! Its very safe and fun to drive! I love my heated leather seats...its nice in Vermont! The only complaint I have is the front cup holders in the standard! I cant even fit a water bottle in it!! Other than that I love it! Looking forward to the convertible model!!

  • 2001 Volkswagon Beetle TDI - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Having driven everything from a Ford Thunderbird to a Dodge 2500 the Beetle TDI (Turbo Diesel Injected) was an interesting buy. The acceleration for the Beetle is not that bad. You must remember, its a gas saving coup NOT a sports car. Folks made the same mistake with the Delorean. Driving experience is fun but not outstanding. Excellent reliability as long as the car is maintained properly. Remember, you get what you pay for. Interior is well designed but cup holders are not made for holding the average cup unless youre a hobbit. Paint is good but could use a thicker clear coat. Unless you are abusing it or are just rough on cars, this v-dub is a tough little sucker. Not luxury, but works

  • Run dont walk from this car! - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    I purchased this car from a friend who had won it. So, I was considered a 2nd owner, so I got cheated out of a 50K mile warranty by VW, even though my friend never insured or drove the car. Beyond that the car is plain and simple--JUNK! The catalytic converter needed to be replaced at about 52K miles, VW wouldnt warranty it. They finally did up to 100k by that time I had over 100K. The check engine light has been on forever, and the transmission is sketchy. The interior is a mess. Cup holders broken, seat fabric is torn, rear view mirror is a joke, not to mention the interior light. Trunk release broken and the fuel release door broken. Dont buy this car unless your are a masochist

  • Fast Fun Trouble - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Love the ride...its a zippy little car and fun to drive, but Im selling it as soon as possible. Its out of warranty and given the amount of problems that occurred within the warranty Im not willing to risk my pocket book any further. Problems...headlights going out (cost $80 to replace), gas cap door broken 3 times, ignition key broken 2 times, rear brakes needed to be replaced at 20K...get real I dont ride the break, A/C problem $900 for a new fan, several recalls, hatch never worked correctly, service slow and youre waiting a month. Dont buy this car its fun but not worth the hassle.

  • 2001 Volkswagon Beetle - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Ive only been driving this vehicle for a couple of weeks. I bought it because of rising fuel costs and I thought I could save some money with this car. I cant complain about. What used to cost me $400 a month in gas is now costing me not even $200! Unfortunately what you save in gas will cost you at the mechanic. This car is EXPENSIVE to work on. As far as interior? Forget it! Chipping door handles, broken sideview mirror knob, broken, good for nothing cup holders, broken arm rest, cheap material easily stained seats, I could go on and on. In fact, just this morning, I went to start my car and the key broke off in the ignition! 2 weeks of driving this car and Im ready to sell it!

  • Burned by the BUG - 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
    By -

    Presently filing a lemon law suit. The car has been to the dealer more than 18 times: multiple areas of dash, etc. peeling, electric window would not roll up, would not go into reverse, rear brakes replaced at 24,000 - dealer said this was normal. Anyone else told this tale? Popping noise in front, radio replaced, rear latch replaced, glove compartment door cracked, heated seats burn your rear on 5 setting and settings 1-4 are hardly noticeable,and the list goes on. Dealer uncooperative; service department incompetent and unfriendly. Dont get bitten by the bug...run, run away.

Volkswagen New Beetle Reviews By Year:
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