The 'new' Beetle was the car that started the retro trend when it was introduced in 1999. In terms of looks, it's very much in the same vein as the original model with a similarly distinctive rounded profile. In September 2005 the model was mildly facelifted with new lights and bumpers.
While the Beetle may look funky from the outside, the interior is a bit of a let down. It's fairly drab and there's little to catch the attention apart from the unusual dash-mounted vase and body-colored door tops - although these only stand out if you go for a bright color. The three-spoke steering wheel is another nice touch, but the rest of it is standard Volkswagen - neatly laid out but not especially exciting.
While the distinctive styling helps the Beetle stand out, it has a knock on effect on cabin space - particularly in the back. The sloping roof mean's there's not much in the way of head or legroom, although younger children won't have too many problems getting in and out. The boot is not only small - with 209 liters, it has less luggage room than most Polo-sized hatchbacks.
The Beetle isn't designed as a performance car and most of the engines offers reasonable rather than scintillating performance. The sole diesel is the well-used 1.9 TDI - and engine that's found across the Volkswagen range as well as in SEAT, Skoda and Audi models. It's fairly noisy and quite clattery when revved, but it's also pretty frugal with 5.4 l/100km (53mpg) achievable on average.
As it's based on the 1997 Golf hatchback, the Beetle is easy to drive, albeit not particularly exciting. The ride is good and the suspension soaks up bumps and potholes with few problems while on more demanding roads the Beetle feels composed and safe. The steering is quite light and there's not very much feel, but on the plus side it feels stable at higher speeds and makes a competent motorway cruiser.
Engine type: Inline 4 turbo
Fuel Type: Diesel
Displacement: 1.9 l (1896 cm3)
Power: 105 hp @ 4000 rpm
Torque: 240 Nm (250 lb-ft) @ 1800 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Layout: front engine, front wheel drive
Top speed: 180 km/h (111 mph)
Curb weight: 1291 kg (2846 lbs)
Average fuel consumption: 5.4 l/100 km (43 mpg US / 52 mpg UK)
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