Volkswagen New Beetle is a compact car produced by the world famous German company from 1998 to 2010. The model, one might say, is legendary. After all, she is the follower of the Volkswagen Beetle. And this car was the first to be launched by the most famous concern to date.
Briefly about the model
What is the first thing you can say about the Volkswagen New Beetle? This is a front-wheel drive model built on the same platform as the Golf MK IV. The same base formed the basis of the VW Bora, Audi A3 and Skoda Octavia A4. In general, the platform is reliable and proven, so it was decided to make a choice in its favor. In general, it was originally planned to deliver the car to the domestic market of North America. And at first it was. However, then cars began to appear for European countries.
The range of engines offered was not very large. Under the hood of the Volkswagen New Beetle installed a gasoline 2-liter engine rated at 115 “horses” or a 1.9-liter diesel engine. After a while, they released a version with a turbocharged 1.8 T. unit. In Europe, it was almost impossible to meet. And then there were Volkswagen New Beetle models with engines of 1.4, 1.6, 1.8, as well as 2.5 liters.
Interesting features
Now about what Volkswagen New Beetle can brag of. The American version differs from the European version by the presence of marker lights located on the sides of the rear bumper. There is also a square niche for the license plate, and “dimensions” are built into the front turn signals. Even in American models, the dashboard was numbered with miles along with kilometers and very large numbers. Also, in most models there were no rear PTFs.
Interestingly, cars were also produced for export to the Japanese market. Accordingly, cars with right-hand drive were made. In these models, the dimensions were in the rear bumper. Reversing lights were mirrored, in contrast to European versions. And the front dimensions were no different from them. They were also built into the headlamps. It is also interesting that regardless of the modification in this car, both the low and high beam were used separately.
And of course, if we compare the Volkswagen New Beetle, whose photos demonstrate a characteristic appearance, with the famous “Golf”, then it had a much more diverse equipment. But more about that already.
Options
Volkswagen New Beetle, the technical characteristics of which are presented in the article, has good equipment. Most of the released models had an ASR, ESP, ABS system, and in the basic configuration there were already 4 AirBag, as well as a steering column, which was formed upon impact. In addition, the car had IsoFix mounts.
What about comfort? In principle, there is nothing particularly exquisite inside. Factory armrest and standard alarm - that was what each model had. European models were completed with a choice of one of two existing adaptation packages. The first was called “Winter-1.” Together with this kit, the car received a suspension adapted for bad roads and heated mirrors. The second was richer. In addition to the above, it also had heated windshield washer nozzles plus heated front seats.
The basic equipment of the car Volkswagen New Beetle 1998 included a cassette player and six good speakers. As an option, they could put a company changer. Most 1.8 T models were offered to potential buyers with a factory top-end system called Monsoon. There was also a full-time amplifier and 8 speakers, not 6. Starting in 2004, cars were equipped with CD head units.
Modernity
This model turned out to be very popular in the modern world. Why? Everything is very simple. And the used interior parts for the Volkswagen New Beetle are inexpensive, and the maintenance is cheap, and in general the car is solid - practically does not break. And if any malfunctions occur, they are eliminated quite simply. Due to popularity in 2012, new versions of this model began to be released. And their production continues to this day.
Convertibles are especially popular. There are a considerable number of versions - the weakest one has a 105 horsepower engine, and the most powerful one has a 200-horsepower unit under the hood. There are also 140 and 160 liter engines. from. Hatchbacks also continue to be in active demand. There are also several versions - on 105, 107, 140, 160, 170 and 200 liters. from. respectively. They have been published since 2011. The most powerful model of these miniature Volkswagens is a car with a 224-horsepower 3.2-liter engine installed under its hood. He was published for three years - from 2000 to 2003.
Owner Comments
Finally - a few words about what people who are its owners say about this car. So, about this “Volkswagen” many have a very pleasant impression. Of the pluses - excellent equipment. Naturally, if we take into account the new models of our time. There is everything you need: electric mirrors, xenon headlights, rain sensors, cruise control, seat heating, on-board computer, central locking, parking sensors, and this is not the whole list.
Of the minuses - a considerable expense. About 11 liters per 100 kilometers in the city. And the oil is worth changing more often. It also takes some time to get used to the mirrors - a solid “dead zone” is a minus of these models. And the suspension is harsh.
The rest is a great city car with a good eversion of the wheels, excellent handling and driving characteristics. Reliable, solid, and what else does an unpretentious motorist need?