1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle: Year-to-Year Changes
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
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1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle ▼
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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.
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