2006 Volkswagen New Beetle: What's New

Vehicle Overview
Following its debut for the 1998 model year, Volkswagen’s retro-themed New Beetle saw an early sales surge. Its popularity waned later, prompting Volkswagen to look for variants. A sporty Turbo S edition joined the lineup in 2002 but was dropped after 2004, and a New Beetle Convertible debuted in 2003.

A new 2.5-liter inline-five-cylinder engine is standard in 2006 models, and the New Beetle’s exterior and interior have been revised slightly. Volkswagen’s Electronic Stabilization Program is standard.
(Skip to details on the: New Beetle Convertible)

Exterior
Nothing else on the road looks like the modern-day Beetle. This unique hatchback rides a 98.7-inch wheelbase, measures 161.1 inches long overall and stands 59 inches high, making it one of the taller compact cars on the market. Restyling for 2006 includes the front and rear fascias and fenders. The headlights and taillamps have been modified as well.

Equipped with a front-mounted engine and front-wheel drive, the New Beetle is based on the platform used for Volkswagen’s Golf model. Standard alloy wheels measure 16 inches in diameter, but 17-inch wheels are available. A power sunroof is optional.

Interior
A bubble-shaped roof gives the four-passenger New Beetle a strong visual kinship to the original model, which first reached the U.S. in 1949. Unfortunately, this design also infringes on rear headroom, and backseat legroom is limited. The rear seatback folds down for additional storage space.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, height-adjustable front bucket seats, a CD stereo with MP3 playback capability, cruise control, remote keyless entry, heated power mirrors, and power windows and locks. Optional Sirius or XM Satellite Radio includes a three-month trial subscription.

Under the Hood
The new 2.5-liter inline-five-cylinder produces 150 horsepower and 170 pounds-feet of torque and works with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic that has a manual-shift provision. The TDI model uses a 100-hp, turbocharged 1.9-liter direct-injection diesel four-cylinder. Besides the manual transmission, the diesel engine can team with a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox automated manual transmission.

Safety
Side-impact airbags, antilock brakes and daytime running lights are standard.

Driving Impressions
Other than its tight backseat, the New Beetle coupe is a wholly appealing automobile that still draws smiles. Performance with the diesel is surprisingly eager, and the manual transmission is easy to operate. Steering is quick and confident, and occupants can expect a generally comfortable ride; the firm suspension soaks up most road imperfections.�

New Beetle Convertible
The New Beetle Convertible’s development took place at the Karmann facility in Germany. The five-layer lined top features a glass rear window. One convertible trim is offered for 2006, and the sole engine offered is a 150-hp, 2.5-liter inline-five-cylinder that teams with a standard five-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic that has a manual-shift provision.

Much like the original Beetle convertibles of the 1950s to 1970s, the modern-day model has a fabric top that rests on the back of the car; it doesn’t fold into the body. Designers retained the familiar curve of the hardtop New Beetle with the convertible’s soft-top.

Automatic pop-up rollover supports behind the rear seats are standard, and a wind blocker is optional. Except for a slightly narrower rear seat, the four-passenger New Beetle Convertible’s interior looks nearly identical to the hardtop’s. Trunk capacity is a modest 5 cubic feet.

Volkswagen did a masterful job of designing the New Beetle Convertible, which is cute and appealing. The car also delivers a superior ride; the suspension absorbs plenty of road imperfections. Directional stability is top-notch, and the convertible handles expertly. Steering feel and feedback are excellent. The manual gearbox operates easily, and the clutch is light. Back to top