• HOME
• 
• AUTO LISTINGS
• 
• FINANCE
• 
• NEWS
• 
• DIRECTORY
• 
• REVIEWS
• 
• FORUM
• 
• BLOG
• 

2006 Volkswagen New Beetle Preview

AUTO FINANCE

Get a FREE, No-obligation internet price quote! At Automobile.com we strive to provide hassle-free auto finance quotes.

Car Review Tools

Photos of Volkswagen New Beetle Volkswagen New Beetle Specs Print this Car Review Email this Car Review

User reviews Write your review Read reviews  (0)

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

In its seven years, the New Beetle has gradually evolved, and is getting another facelift for 2006. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

The new model for 2006 launches minor exterior and mechanical updates. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

Many of the Beetle updates were previewed in the chop-top Ragster Concept which debuted at this years Detroit Auto Show. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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

The biggest change to the New Beetle for 06 is that it gains an entirely new engine. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

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.