1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle: Overview
Updated: 12/17/09
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1998-2005 Volkswagen New Beetle ▼
- Price Range: $2,700 - $11,100
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Pros
- Acceleration (Turbo)
- Standard antilock brakes
- Build quality
- Fuel economy
- 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.
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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 |
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