1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
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1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle ▼
- Price Range: $3,100 - $14,100
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Fuel economy
- Standard antilock brakes
- Acceleration (Turbo)
- Build quality
- Side airbags
Cons
- Rear-seat room
- Visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Not many people had ever expected to see one on the street when Volkswagen showed a modern-day Beetle at Detroit's auto show in 1994, as a concept vehicle. Yet here it was, in 1998: a contemporary rendition of the old Beetle, similar in basic shape but bigger and with a conventional powertrain underneath. No one really expected a rear-mounted or air-cooled engine, after all--two distinctive traits of the original Beetle. The New Beetle, then, revived the general profile and character of the famous original VW Bug in a modern, better-equipped automobile. Essentially, it put a Bug-like body over the chassis and running gear of the fourth-generation Golf hatchback (coming for 1999). All New Beetles had 4-cylinder engines. The base model's engine was rated at 115 horsepower, and the TDI model used a 90-horsepower turbocharged diesel four. All Beetles had a standard 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. Front side airbags were standard. So were 4-wheel disc brakes, with antilocking optional.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Volkswagen New Beetle GL, auto Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Year to Year Changes
1999 Volkswagen New Beetle:
Antilock braking became standard in the New Beetle's second season. Even more notable was the new turbocharged GLX edition, which boasted 150 horsepower. The GLX got wider alloy wheels than its mates, plus a speed-activated rear spoiler, leather seating, and a glass power sunroof. All models got new "ring" type headrests for front and rear occupants, larger cupholders, and an optional power glass sunroof.
2000 Volkswagen New Beetle:
A new Cold Weather option package included heated front seats. New Beetles added antitheft-coded ignition keys and a dashboard light that illuminated when the brakes might need servicing.
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle:
17-inch wheels and tires and a new Sport Luxury package were the main additions for 2001.
2002 Volkswagen New Beetle:
The new Turbo S model had 180 hp and introduced to the line a 6-speed manual transmission for this model year. The Turbo S had slightly different front and rear trim and a stiffer suspension. VW's bumper-to-bumper warranty was now 4 years/50,000 mi. instead of 2/24,000, and the powertrain warranty was 5/60,000 instead of 10/100,000.
2003 Volkswagen New Beetle:
A convertible model was added for 2003. The GL convertible has a manual folding top, other convertibles a power top; all include a heated glass rear window and rollover bars that deploy if sensors detect an imminent tip. Other changes for '03 included standard power windows and cruise control and optional heated seats on GL models. GLS models added alloy wheels and sunroof.
2004 Volkswagen New Beetle:
Available in '04 is Volkswagen's Telematics emergency and concierge system. Other additions to the New Beetle this year include restyled wheels, available xenon headlights, and a CD-player that reads MP3-formatted discs.
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle:
Optional satellite radio and linewide availability of a 6-speed automatic transmission lead changes for Volkswagen's 2005 retro-styled cars. Also new for '05, factory audio systems add a jack for connecting digital music players, and satellite radio is available for all models.
Our road test for the 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The smooth-running base gas engine feels peppy with manual transmission, though it's short on power at speeds above 60 mph with either gearbox. VW's turbodiesel has no problem keeping up with traffic, but its passing power does not match that of the gas engine--and being a diesel, it suffers more vibration and noise. Although the turbocharged gasoline engine suffers a delay in power delivery below 3000 rpm, it accelerates strongly after that. The Turbo S, introduced in 2002, is faster than other Beetles--7.4 sec 0-60 in our test--but it further exaggerates the turbo-lag problem.The automatic transmission on one test car was slow to engage after being shifted from Park, but generally changed up and down smoothly and promptly. Our 2.0-liter test cars averaged 26.4 mpg with manual shift, 21.1 mpg with automatic. A GLS Turbo with automatic returned 22.7 mpg, while a stick-shift diesel got a super-frugal 42.1 mpg. Thanks in part to unusual-for-the-class 16-inch tires, the ride is comfortable but firm, soaking up most bumps with ease. Steering and handling are a notch above the class norm, but the slab-sided New Beetle gets jostled by crosswinds. Braking is strong and sure. Above 70 mph, passengers have to raise their voices to carry on a conversation, though automatic-transmission models are somewhat quieter on the highway, due to their gearing. Interiors brim with high-grade materials and expensive-looking touches, though it takes a few tries to become familiar with the unorthodox radio buttons. Power accessory switches mounted flat on the door panels are awkward to reach. Front seats are comfortable and supportive, and few cars of any size offer as much front head and leg room. In back, leg room is tight if the front seats are more than halfway back. More serious, passengers over 5-foot-6 will find their heads against the inner hatch lid. Front roof pillars are thick at their bases. Also, outside mirrors are mounted unusually high, cutting the driver's vision of some traffic. Interior storage space is skimpy. Luggage room under the rear hatch is modest, but the rear seats fold nearly flat to conveniently expand the cargo area. Paint quality and fit-and-finish have been excellent. Bodies have been solid and rattle-free on New Beetles tested.
Value for the Money
As sport coupes go, this one is actually quite practical. The New Beetle's driving and emotional appeal are strong enough too, to overcome its skimpy rear seat and visibility blind spots. New Beetles were in short supply and shockingly high demand at first, but that began to taper off somewhat, so more are likely to be available on used-car lots.
As sport coupes go, this one is actually quite practical. The New Beetle's driving and emotional appeal are strong enough too, to overcome its skimpy rear seat and visibility blind spots. New Beetles were in short supply and shockingly high demand at first, but that began to taper off somewhat, so more are likely to be available on used-car lots.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Volkswagen New Beetle GL, auto Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Volkswagen New Beetle includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volkswagen New Beetle .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
Poor AM radio reception when switches (brake, lights, locks, etc.) are operated is usually due to the radio-antenna cable being routed too close to the wiring harness. (1998-99)
Hard starting:
Diesel engines may be hard to start or run poorly below in cold weather due to fuel clouding. VW recommends using Stanadyne One Shot during the winter. (2000-02)
Tire wear:
To reduce tire wear and improve handling, the rear-wheel alignment specifications have been revised. (1998-2000)
Vehicle noise:
The speakers in the doors may rattle due to loose rivets. (1998-99)
Vehicle noise:
The dashboard may whistle at speeds over 45 mph because of poor sealing of the HVAC plenum. (1998-99)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $630 |
| Alternator | $455 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,005 |
| Brakes | $370 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $570 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $535 |
| Exhaust System | $590 |
| Radiator | $335 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $620 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $160 |
Our price chart for this generation Volkswagen New Beetle details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
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| 2005 | |||
| Beetle GL conv. | $13,200-14,300 | $12,000-13,000 | $7,700-8,300 |
| GLS, GLS 1.8T conv. | $14,300-15,500 | $13,000-14,100 | $8,900-9,600 |
| New Beetle GL | $10,700-11,700 | $9,600-10,500 | $5,700-6,200 |
| New Beetle GLS | $11,800-13,000 | $10,600-11,700 | $6,600-7,300 |
| 2004 | |||
| Beetle GL conv. | $11,000-12,000 | $9,900-10,800 | $5,900-6,500 |
| GLS, GLS 1.8T conv. | $12,200-13,300 | $11,000-12,000 | $6,800-7,400 |
| New Beetle GL | $8,900-10,000 | $8,000-9,000 | $4,600-5,200 |
| New Beetle GLS | $10,200-11,300 | $9,200-10,200 | $5,300-5,900 |
| New Beetle Turbo S | $11,300-12,300 | $10,200-11,100 | $6,200-6,800 |
| 2003 | |||
| Beetle convertible | $9,500-10,600 | $8,600-9,500 | $4,900-5,500 |
| GLS 1.8T, GLX conv. | $10,500-12,000 | $9,500-10,800 | $5,600-6,400 |
| New Beetle | $7,500-9,500 | $6,800-8,600 | $3,800-4,800 |
| New Beetle GLX | $9,600-10,600 | $8,600-9,500 | $5,000-5,500 |
| New Beetle Turbo S | $9,500-10,500 | $8,600-9,500 | $4,900-5,500 |
| 2002 | |||
| New Beetle | $6,300-7,800 | $5,500-6,900 | $2,800-3,400 |
| New Beetle Sport, GLX | $8,200-9,200 | $7,400-8,300 | $4,200-4,700 |
| New Beetle Turbo S | $7,800-8,800 | $7,000-7,900 | $4,000-4,500 |
| 2001 | |||
| New Beetle | $5,200-6,500 | $4,400-5,500 | $2,100-2,600 |
| New Beetle Sport, GLX | $6,800-7,600 | $6,100-6,800 | $3,200-3,600 |
| 2000 | |||
| New Beetle | $4,700-5,800 | $3,900-4,900 | $1,800-2,200 |
| New Beetle GLX | $6,000-6,700 | $5,200-5,800 | $2,500-2,800 |
| 1999 | |||
| New Beetle | $4,200-5,000 | $3,400-4,100 | $1,400-1,700 |
| New Beetle GLX | $5,200-5,800 | $4,400-4,900 | $2,100-2,300 |
| 1998 | |||
| New Beetle | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Volkswagen New Beetle include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door hatchback | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 98.9 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 161.1 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.9 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 59.5 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2712 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.0-18.6 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 41.3 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 39.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 34.6 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 33.0 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Three engines have been available under New Beetle hoods. The base 2.0-liter 4-cylinder makes 115 horsepower. A 1.9-liter turbodiesel went into TDI models, rated at 90 horsepower. In 1999, a high-performance turbocharged gas engine became available, whipping up 150 horses. Either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic might be installed. New in 2002 was a Turbo S model that used a 180-hp 1.8-liter turbocharged 4 cyl and introduced to the line a 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic transmission became available in 2005.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 1.8 / 109 | 180 | 173 | 6-speed manual: 23/30 6-speed automatic: -- |
6-speed manual: -- 6-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 115 | 122 | 5-speed manual: 23/29 4-speed automatic: 22/27 6-speed automatic: -- |
5-speed manual: 26.4 4-speed automatic: -- 6-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbodiesel ohc I4 | 1.9 / 116 | 90 | 149-155 | 5-speed manual: 41/48 4-speed automatic: 34/44 6-speed automatic: -- |
5-speed manual: 42.1 4-speed automatic: -- 6-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 1.8 / 109 | 150 | 155-162 | 5-speed manual: 25/31 4-speed automatic: 23/27 6-speed automatic: -- |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 22.7 6-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Mexico
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Volkswagen New Beetle include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 New Beetle |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1998-02 Beetle:
The brake-lamp switch may malfunction. Dealer will inspect and replace all affected parts.
2001-02 Beetle:
ABS Electrical Control Unit can short circuit, causing a fire.
2003-2005 New Beetle convertibles equipped with an advanced (dual-stage) airbag system:
The front airbags may deploy more forcefully than needed in a low-speed crash due to one or more defective crash sensors. Dealers will inspect each vehicle to determine that the specific defective crash sensor is present on one or both sides of the vehicle. All defective crash sensors will be replaced.
2004 Beetle:
The passenger detection function of the passive occupant detection system may become disabled, resulting in possible air bag malfunction. Dealer will reprogram affected systems.
2004-05 diesel Beetle:
High-pressure diesel pump may contain an improper fastener, which could allow diesel fuel to escape.
2004-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle equipped with an advanced (dual-stage) airbag system:
The front airbags may deploy more forcefully than needed in a low-speed crash due to one or more defective crash sensors. Dealers will inspect each vehicle to determine that the specific defective crash sensor is present on one or both sides of the vehicle. All defective crash sensors will be replaced.
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