EDMUNDS.COM 2004 VOLKSWAGEN NEW BEETLE
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
The image car in VW''s lineup, the New Beetle offers a unique combination of safety, fun and upscale features for its price range.
Pros
Cute yet classic styling, range of engine choices, long list of standard features, good crash test scores.
Cons
Tight rear-seat accommodations, limited cargo room, high price of Turbo S model.
What''s New for 2004
For 2004, the New Beetle is no longer available in GLX trim. There''s an improved TDI engine and restyled 16- and 17-inch wheels. Turbo S models get uniquely styled 17-inch wheels as a late-year addition. New safety features include head curtain airbags and upgraded head restraints. The Monsoon audio system is now standard on the GLS and new GDL headlights are optional. Later in the model year a fixed rear spoiler will replace the power-operated unit and a CD player with MP3 capability will be added. Convertibles get new exterior colors and color combinations. All Beetles get a new fuel cap warning light this year.
Overview
Introduction:
When the Golf-based Volkswagen New Beetle debuted, America went bonkers over it. It was cute. It was retro and yet cool at the same time. But that was a few years ago. Just like cute puppies, cars grow old. And unless something is done to keep the interest up, the public''s fascination wears off. Indeed, New Beetle sales have cooled considerably since 1998. In 2002, Volkswagen energized the lineup with the introduction of the Turbo S. Building off the GLX 1.8T model, the Turbo S has a more powerful engine, a more aggressive-looking body and unique interior treatments. Indeed, the Turbo S is the most powerful and sporting New Beetle ever offered in the United States. Accordingly, it''s also the most expensive. The New Beetle is entering its seventh season for 2004. At this point, many small cars get a full makeover. Instead, VW will rely on the Beetle''s large array of standard features, premium cabin furnishings and playful on-road demeanor to keep the nameplate competitive. The long-awaited convertible version finally made its appearance midway through the 2003 model year with such features as a power-folding cloth top, a rollover protection system and, a first in the price range, a six-speed automatic transmission.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The two-door New Beetle is available in hatchback and convertible body styles. Hatchbacks come in GL, GLS and Turbo S trim; convertibles are either GL or GLS. GL models come with 16-inch wheels; air conditioning; cassette stereo; power windows, locks and mirrors; cruise control; seat-height adjusters; a telescoping steering wheel; and a manually folding top on convertibles. Options include a premium Monsoon sound system and heated front seats. The GLS adds a sunroof, a center armrest with storage, alloy wheels (also available on the GL 1.8T), foglights and a power-operated top on the convertible. Besides all the GL options, you can get leather upholstery or a trim package with sport seats and interior accents that match the exterior paint (GLS 1.8T buyers can also get 17-inch wheels). The Turbo S has all of the above items, plus unique 17-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, distinctive body add-ons and a rear spoiler that deploys at 45 mph. A dealer-installed CD changer is optional on all New Beetles.
Powertrains and Performance:
GL and GLS buyers can choose one of three engines. First up is a 115-horsepower, ULEV-certified 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder. More interesting is the revised 100-hp, 1.9-liter diesel four (called TDI) that gets close to 50 mpg on the highway and makes an impressive 177 lb-ft of torque, or the 150-hp, 1.8-liter turbocharged four (called the 1.8T). All of these engines have adequate power for easy city driving, though the 1.8T is the most fun, and it provides fuel economy on par with the base 2.0-liter. A five-speed manual transmission is available on all trims; the hatchback is eligible for a four-speed automatic, while the convertible gets a segment-first six-speed automatic. The performance-oriented Turbo S comes only with a 180-hp version of the 1.8T paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Safety:
Standard on all New Beetles are four-wheel antilock disc brakes, side airbags for front occupants, head curtain airbags and active front head restraints. Convertibles have a rollover protection system. Stability control is optional on GL and GLS models and standard on the Turbo S. In government crash testing, the Beetle earned five stars in both frontal impact categories. It received a "Good" rating (and "Best Pick" status) from the IIHS in frontal offset crash testing.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Though smaller inside than the Golf, the Beetle (seats four, 12 cubic feet of hatch space) compensates with style: its tablelike dashboard, huge circular speedometer and round vents distinguish it from everything else on the road. The convertible''s top is easy to fold and well insulated from wind and road noise. With its top down, the bug has a classic but polished appearance, thanks to the handsome aluminum trim along the beltline.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Like other VWs, the Beetle is both fun to drive and comfortable for long trips. The Turbo S has a slightly stiffer suspension -- it''s still too soft for performance freaks, but just about right for most drivers who want a little more sport from their new bug.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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