2006 Volkswagen New Beetle

A brief background, specifications, and standard and optional features for the 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. Both trim levels - 2.5 and the TDI - are discussed.

The New Beetle was introduced by Volkswagen back in 1998. Options seem to be the name of the game for the two-door New Beetle. The New Beetle seats four passengers and comes either as a hatchback or a convertible (convertible is available only in the 2.5 trim level.) In addition, consumers have the option of standard gasoline engine that is available on all trim levels, or diesel engine (available only on hatchback TDI model.)Fuel estimates range from 32 mpg for the gasoline engine to 40 mpg for the diesel. Maximum cargo space is 12 cubic feet.

The 2.5 trim level hatchback and convertible have a 2.5-liter, inline, five-cylinder engine. This-front wheel drive engine produces 150 hp and 170 lb. - ft. of torque. A five-speed manual is standard, while a six-speed automatic is optional. The TDI trim level has an optional turbocharged, diesel-fueled, four-cylinder engine that produces 100 hp and 177 lb. - ft. of torque. For this engine buyers can choose from the standard five-speed manual, or Volkswagen's own Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG.) The latter is essentially a manual transmission that uses a computer and hydraulic servomotors to shift. In addition, the DSG transmission has a manual shifting option.

Base MSRP for the New Beetle starts at $17,795 and goes up to $23,610.

Standard Features:

  • 16-inch wheels
  • Air conditioning
  • Power windows, locks, and mirrors
  • Cruise control
  • Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
  • Stability control
  • Side airbags for front occupants
  • Full-length head curtain airbags
  • Active front head restraints
  • Rollover protection (convertible)
  • Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
  • Manually folding soft-top (convertible)

Impressive Options:

  • 17-inch wheels
  • Leather upholstery
  • Trunk-mounted CD changer
  • Satellite radio
  • Sunroof (hatchback)
  • Power top (convertible)

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