Volkswagen New Beetle Review

The little guy had no way of knowing that this New Beetle has virtually nothing more in common with Herbie or the original Beetle than the overall shape and having the engine over the drive wheels. This New Beetle is much larger, way more sturdy, has a water-cooled, inline 5-cylinder engine in the front driving the front wheels, and is a good step up from inexpensive, entry-level position that characterized the original Beetle.

Our test car this week, the 2008 New Beetle S with five-speed manual transmission, has a suggested retail price of $17,365. Only one cost notation shows up on the Monrony sticker – a $375 “delete” for the Satellite radio which brings it just under 17-grand. The $640 destination charge brings it to $17,630.

For that price the New Beetle is well equipped. AC, power heated exterior mirrors, cruise control, adjustable steering wheel, power locks, power windows with pinch protection, height-adjustable manual front seats, remote releases for hatch and gas filler door, 16-inch alloy wheels, in-dash single CD player with MP3 auxiliary input jack and of course the traditional bud vase all come standard.