Skip to main content

Used 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle Consumer Reviews

3.9 out of 5 stars
111 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
3.88 out of 5 stars

Cute on the Outside, Cheap on the Inside

Brina, 07/26/2006
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

I have wanted a Volkswagen Beetle since they came out, and I finally got one last year. I admit it is a fun car, but having to replace the turbo already (before I made the first payment!) and having strange transmission problems, I don't know that I would buy another one. I would absolutely reccomend buying from a dealer, and spending the extra for the extended warranty! The inside is incredibly cheap and easily broken, but the cute flower holder makes up for part of that! It is still fun to drive, but it's going to my husband to drive the commute in, and I'm getting something different!

Report Abuse

3 out of 5 stars

What a great ride ...

needaname, 10/13/2017
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful

... unfortunately, ​I am afraid after my insurance looks at my rear ended Beetle it may be totaled due to the cost of repairing my beloved Beetle. This is the second time in the 17 years I have owned my Beetle that it has been hit. I know they are expensive to repair. The first rear end occurred when a texting driver crashed into the rear end at 40 mph. I wasn't hurt as the seats absorbed all of the impact but it was expensive to repair. I am 5'3.5" inches and I found the entry and exit of the Beetle excellent though I have taller friends that have complained. I found that to be an advantage as they would not be willing to drive the car since they had to put their hands on the ground to exit. However - anyone and everyone who has ever driven a turbo Beetle will tell you how much FUN FUN FUN this car is.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle for sale near you
Showing 3 of 16 listings
See all 16 listings

3.5 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive when its not in the shop

EmHeCo, 06/24/2009
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I got this car about a year ago as a graduation gift. With in the first two months the entire instrument panel went kaput. $700+ to replace. Found out, windshield whipper motor was burned out. Air conditioning went out. Then the gas door broke off, struts went, oil pan failed. Now...exactly a year later, its in the shop again. Head gasket, started and something else needing to be replaced after car overheated and broke down. I am not hard on her, I take good care of her, always oiled. But I have now put almost $4000 in to her. I admit it is really fun to drive, turns on a dime, parks like a dream and has some kick. When she isn't up on the lift.

Report Abuse

4.25 out of 5 stars

Almost worth the Trouble

youareslow, 12/31/2002
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I leased my '01 Beetle and it has been in the shop about 4 times in the first 2 years for various things. They are all minor things, but still issues. The window regulators, the speedometer, center console, and gas cap have all failed since it was new. These are not huge issue's but should be noted. The window regulator has a recall so if you have this problem go get it fixed. Otherwise the car has been everything I hoped it would be. The Turbo motor is quiet, smooth, and very powerful. The heated seats are great in the winter and car is very quiet at highway speeds. Overall I would call the car "Not so trouble- free fun."

Report Abuse

4.88 out of 5 stars

Fast easy riding and driving Fun Bug

zcarid, 08/25/2009
2001 Volkswagen New Beetle GLX 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Each year the GLX has pleased us with the performance on long trips averaging 2500 miles. Cruises easily at highway speeds between 80 and 100 mph. Will go a lot faster but so will the police. Quick responsive steering and at end of long days feel like we have been treated to an easy ride. Visibility is great all around. Acceleration with the Turbo is a real safety feature in itself. Have had a few problems all easily fixed by family mechanic. Not a fan of dealer maintenance who seem to be way too expensive and eager to replace assemblies when an adjustment or a minor part is all that is needed.

Report Abuse
Items per page:
5