2001 Volkswagen New Beetle: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This retro-styled 2-dr hatchback coupe recalls the original Beetle but is built on the modern front-wheel-drive Jetta/Golf chassis. All models are powered by 4-cyl engines: 2.0-liter and turbo 1.8-liter gasoline units, and a 1.9-liter turbodiesel. Manual transmission, front side airbags, ABS, and 16-inch wheels are standard. Automatic transmission is optional. For 2001, a high-power Monsoon audio system is newly standard on GLX models and optional on GLS. Newly available for GLS Turbo and GLX are 17-inch wheels. Added midyear was a limited-edition New Beetle Sport based on the GLS Turbo and including heated leather sport seats, 17-inch wheels, Monsoon audio, sunroof, and special badges.

COMPETITION

The current Honda Prelude has been around for a few years but it has plenty of power, excellent road manners, and gets reasonable fuel economy. If Prelude is a little too expensive, take a look at our other Best Buy the Volkswagen New Beetle. It offers interesting styling and a nice mix of comfort, performance, and economy.

If raw performance is what you are after we Recommend the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, and Pontiac Firebird. Not as pleasant to live with on a daily basis, these cars offer a lot of bang for your buck. New last year, the fun-to-drive Toyota Celica also earns the Recommended nod with its reputation for reliability.