2006 Volkswagen New Beetle Review

Specifications

Is a Minor Facelift Enough to Rejuvenate Lagging Sales?

The Volkswagen New Beetle doesnt have tradition. It was swapped out in 1998 when VW launched the modernized bug, with its platform-shared chassis and cutencuddly looks. But besides the fact that the engine location, driving wheels and trunk are backwards compared to the original, the New Beetle has been beneficial for Volkswagen, adding a touch of cheer to its model lineup. The classic VW Beetle is an iconic car, and a very successful one at that.

In its seven years here on planet earth, the New Beetle has gradually evolved, its species broadening (and multiplying). It started out as one model, a three-door hatchback available with a choice of gasoline or diesel engine, with automatic or manual. Later on, VW strapped on the pocket-rocket 1.8T engine, serving up 150 hp and eventually 180 hp in Turbo S guise. It was the athlete of the group - a bug with cross-trainers.

There were a few funky mutations along the way, the most memorable of which was the homologation New Beetle RSi, the modern day Super Beetle. With Haldex all-wheel drive, wide body kit, and a narrow-angle VR6 engine, it shocked the auto world, but quickly went extinct after just 250 units.

More recently, Volkswagen has taken its focus off the New Beetle, promoting the new fifth-generation Jetta, Golf, and upcoming sixth-generation Passat. But in showrooms, the eye-catching New Beetle still garners attention, despite being overshadowed by six-figure Phaetons and the V10 TDI-powered Touareg. Its hard to ignore the most glamorous bug, the Convertible with its retro-inspired stacked tonneau cover, which replaced the Golf-based Cabrio in the new millennium. Barbie dolls and teenyboppers everywhere were gleeful.

The new model for 2006 launches minor exterior and mechanical updates, many of which were previewed in the chop-top Ragster Concept which debuted at this years Detroit Auto Show. Its the most significant update since the cars launch in 1998, and together, represents more change than the previous minor year-to-year updates.

Like the Ragster, the 06 New Beetle features minor alterations to the nose and tail. New, more oval headlamps and tail lamps with different lenses are the first marks of change. Their new design is said to provide better illumination for increased visibility. Front and rear bumpers have also been reworked, incorporating new wrap-around air dams, and are slightly more tapered for a more defined look.

The rear bumper features rectangular fog lamps as opposed to the previous models round units. The most noticeable change is to the wheel arches, the bulbous look of which has been changed in favour of tailored flat edges. The Ragsters most distinctive feature, its C-shaped chopped aluminum roof, unfortunately didnt make the cut.

Interior changes for the 2006 New Beetle have been kept to a minimum. Highlights include the addition of chrome-ringed gauges and air vents, and a reworked instrument cluster. The funky, beaded dashboard texture and flower holder remain untouched.

The biggest change to the New Beetle for 06 is that it gains an entirely new engine. Recently introduced in the all-new Jetta Mk.V, the New Beetle will get the 2.5-litre inline-five engine, which makes 150 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. The large five-banger will be the base models engine, officially replacing the venerable, but weak, 115- horsepower 2.0-liter SOHC 8-valve engine.

As VW is also in the process of phasing out the 1.8T motor, the only other engine which will be available in the New Beetle for 2006 is the 1.9 TDI diesel motor. Like the Golf and Jetta TDI, the New Beetle TDI is a very desirable vehicle for its low fuel consumption and ability to travel long distances between fill-ups. With 100 hp, 177 lb-ft of torque and PumpDause (PD) technology on board, the diesel engine is quicker, cleaner and more efficient than ever. Both cars will feature a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic manual mode will be offered as an option.

While it may not be drastic, the updates to the New Beetle should be enough to keep it fresh for at least a few years. Currently, VW has no planned replacement for the New Beetle, although a decision will be made soon on whether or not to commence with a replacement based on the new A5 small car platform.

It, as well as the current Golf/GTI and Audi TT, are the only vehicles currently being built on the platform that debuted in 1996 with the first generation Audi A3. The revised New Beetle was unveiled at VWs North American 50th anniversary celebration, a fitting debut for a car whose parents helped usher VW into one of the worlds most important markets. The revised New Beetle will arrive in showrooms in late summer.