2006 Volkswagen New Beetle: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A more powerful standard engine and revised styling are 2006 updates of note to Volkswagen's retro-styled cars. New Beetles come as 2-dr hatchbacks or convertibles. A 150-hp 2.5-liter 5-cyl is now the standard engine. The 115-hp and 150-hp turbocharged 4-cyl engines are dropped. Available only as a hatchback is the TDI model with a 100-hp 4-cyl turbodiesel. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard. A 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate is optional. Every New Beetle includes antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and front side airbags with head and torso protection. An antiskid system and traction control are standard. Audio systems have a jack for connecting digital music players. Also optional are leather upholstery and heated front seats. Convertibles have a manual-folding top or optional power top, and include a heated glass rear window and rollover bars that deploy if sensors detect an imminent tip.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cyl hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include Ford Mustang Mazda Miata, and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are Acura RSX, Honda S2000, Mini Cooper, Nissan 350Z, and Pontiac GTO.

New or significantly redesigned models include Mitsubishi Eclipse and Pontiac Solstice.