Used 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Consumer Reviews
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Worst mistake I've ever made in my 58 years!
Chris, 10/29/2018
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
38 of 38 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for my daughter, whom had had a tough time growing up, but always wanted a VW Bug. I bought with my heart and not my head, never do that again. Every negative review herein is 100% true, it is a lemon of engineering bumbleheads, I'm an engineer so can say that. Paid $10,500 for this 2005 VW Turbo in 2014. Since then it has been in the shop 7 times, and currently sits in a parking lot not running. Convertible top went out 45 days after purchase (common problem $1000 minimum), windows stopped working at 75 days ($$?). Transmission started jumping at about 3 months of ownership ($7000 if needs to be replaced). Currently the rear window regulators need replacing ($600 a pop), the battery harness is melting (common problem $750), Already spent $3000 in misc problems, timing chain, etc. This car is just not worth the headaches, trust the negative reviews herein, skip Volkswagen, their reputation is so tarnished and damaged, stay away.
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fun driving car but parts don't last long
jbdonkey, 07/11/2014
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
47 of 48 people found this review helpful
I owned two beetle tdi (2003 and 2005 model). I always bought them used and over 100000 miles on meters. They drive smoothly but the interiors are horrible. The door panels are never good. I have look at least twenty beetles from craigslist posts and the plastic or leather parts are bad. Their sale price is way lower compared to Japanese. Since I drive 200 mile every day in commuting and i really care about the gas millage. so I can live with that. If VW try to earn the market, they should know how to improve this. By the way, the parts are not cheap in this car.
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Fabulous beetle
Dexxie, 05/01/2016
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
42 of 43 people found this review helpful
I bought my car used with 12,000 miles on it and have owned it for ten years. I've not really had any problems with it. In the first nine years I owned it the only things I had to replace were brakes, lights because they generally last a year and the driver's side window. I believe the weather in Wisconsin has a dramatic influence on how the windows operate. To release the pressure on the window on my convertible, I use a credit card to break the seal from the frozen ice in the winter. Another thing I've learned to do in the winter is leave the window down a little so when the temp changes the window doesn't get iced over.
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CUTE! But a Dream down the hole...
skuzziboi1, 12/03/2012
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Bi-Color Edition 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
42 of 43 people found this review helpful
Okay so I have been a Beetle fan for as long as I can remember, I bought myself a 2005 VW BEETLE BI COLOR ED! I was so stoked, it was black and maroon, most def an eye turned. It was very fun to drive and had all the bells and whistles except for a turbo. Anywho, after hitting 90k the Tranny started to give me problems, I was determined to keep my car but sadly had to trade it in to obtain the most for its value while it still had value. It became so scary to drive, I would stall at stop signs or traffic lights, some days I would forget I had issues all together because some days it would be perfectly fine and other days it would act up. And yes this is the tranny..... Please dont buy
Nothing But Headaches!!!!
kelboom01, 04/03/2014
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
39 of 40 people found this review helpful
Bought my car used with 25,000 miles on it and within first year was met with of course the rear window not working issue that looks as though is a "normal" problem with this type of car. So needless to say $1,000 to fix and then front headlights blew out twice within a few months??? Now dealing with transmission "bucking" issues and passenger window not working and convertible roof not working!!!! help!!!!! NEVER AGAIN BUYING A VW...
Run... dont walk and find another car!!
doodlebughi, 02/28/2013
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I bought my turbo conv. beetle used in 08 with 39000 miles on it. I starting having problems with the drivers side window not going down within the first year and it just escalated from there. I have since replaced 3 of the 4 windows to the tune of $800 a PIECE! I have just now reached 70k miles and my transmission is shot. It appears this is a very common problem and VW refueses to deal with it or make good on it. I now have over 5k in repairs into this vehicle that is not worth much and my mechanic is saying another 5800k to get it going again. I have loved the look of my car and how fun it is to drive.....BUT, I will Never ever by another VW. what a money pit!!
Why I regret buying the 2005 Volkswagon New Beetle
javidiaz, 05/19/2012
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
40 of 44 people found this review helpful
I made the huge mistake of purchasing a 2005 Volkswagon New Beetle last year. This was a used car meant to be a small retirement gift to myself, and a year later, after 4 visits to the mechanic, $2500.00 dollars in repairs and a looming transmission problem, I am now faced with having to trade this blue nightmare in for a more reliable car. Any smile I had on my face was wiped off by the pure unreliable nature of this vehicle and what this year of driving what I consider the worst vehicle ever made has been to me. I have owned Ford, Dodge, Honda, and never experienced a poorly engineered vehicle until I drove the 2005 VW New Beetle. Heed my review and stay away from these cars.
Beetle
alicat715@aol.com, 12/11/2004
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I thought this would be a fun, cool car and I hate it!! I can't wait to get out of my lease. It's cute...and that's about it. Every perk about the car is cosmetic. It looks nice. That's about the only thing I like about it. The cup holders are small...only can use one. The engine is small--NO power. I had an 8 yr old ask me, "Bugs are slow, huh?" b/c there is no power. I should have got the turbo engine...I might have been a little more satisfied.
Fun to drive, but never again.
Casey S, 11/03/2015
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
31 of 35 people found this review helpful
This was my first car, and I regret not doing enough researchow on it. Since I bought late 2014, I've had many, many problems. It's almost not worth keeping, considering the repairs have cost almost as much as I paid for it. I beg you, don't fall for the cute style and fun drive like I did. You will regret it.
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"Beauty is the beginning of terror!"
Chuck, 03/15/2009
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
I bought the most beautiful 2005 New Beetle convertible ever built. Midnight blue with beige interior. And that's the best thing I can say about the car. Nearly four years and 30,000 miles later and I can only tell you to avoid this product at all costs. If you must, lease it. Engine compartment fire, windows on the passenger side disentgrating on thir own, water pump, brakes, front struts, burned out headlights, check engine lights come on whenever they please, poor gas mileage on 93, convertible roof is moody, plastic and rubber parts fall off in the night to be found on the floor in the morning, interior peels on hot days, locks won't work on cold days, new radio, I can go on,
Surprise! I love this car!
Diane, 01/09/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this car a year ago when it was 2 years old-- never thought of buying a VW but was looking for a diesel & this was the only one available. It's so much bigger and more comfortable than it looks like it would be-- my sister says it's nicer to ride in than my BMW 3 convertible was! And I got 47 MPG on my Christmas trip to Florida this year!!! I'm buying 10 gallons of gas every 10-15 days and commuting 50 miles a day, averaging between 38 and 42 mpg (lower when the AC is on). I know the VWs have some maintenance issues, but I've had no problems so far. It's a really enjoyable car to drive.
Fun in the sun : )
that 70's girl, 07/17/2010
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car from a dealer as a 2 year lease turn in. From the minute I saw it, I was in love. It's a real head turner. This is my 4th VW, bought a new '74 Beetle for college and 2 Rabbits after that. Pure fun to drive every where I go, people comment on what a cute car it is. have had check engine light issues but I have my BIL reset until it goes off again. I like the Turbo when it kicks in on the interstate. I can keep up with just about everyone. Minor things can be annoying but I don't care. I bought the car for fun and it delivers every time I drive it :))
Cute retro looking car.
lovebug05, 07/11/2011
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
Ive had my 05 Beetle for about 2 years now. I got it with 116k miles and 17k miles on it with no major issues. Although Ive had to replace my battery twice within a year and & half. Major pain to take out and re install. The h1 bulbs for the headlights & fog lights burn out often. Major MAJOR pain in the a** to take the headlights out to put the new bulbs in. The interior dash scratches very easy and the car always smells like crayons in warmer weather. I had to put 1k in replacing the timing belt, water pump, belt tension er, serpentine belt, new tires, brakes just for preventive maintenance.
Fun in the sun, but stormy reliability.
bugawff, 04/05/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Dark Flint Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Traded in my Volvo s60 for this cute top down car. Thought German car would be better than Swedish. Have had the car in for speaker, gas lid, windows, wipers, etc. Everything seems to be falling apart. Had the driver side window fixed about 5 times, they can't seem to get it right. One day on low gas my gas tank lid wouldn't click open, good thing I was close to a dealer and they opened it for me, but couldn't fix it at the moment had to wait 2 weeks for that. Gas mileage is ok, could be better. Trunk space you can't even fit in a beach chair. AND if you are thinking of taking friends with you for a fun ride hope the ones sitting in the back are kids, small kids.
Fun but won't buy another!
k8t, 08/25/2010
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
Bought car used with only 6k miles at wholesale price, these are way too over priced brand new. PROS: fun to drive, ICE cold AC good mpg. No engine problems, replaced breaks at 45k miles. I totaled this car with only 50k miles, t-boned red light runner going about 45 mph and airbags went off even with airbag sensor on (recall), was uninjured and car kept me safe. CONS: cd player went out, gutless with AC on, a few electric issues, drivers side headlight and tail light had to be replaced 2x in 3 years and its a HUGE pain. Biggest problem was back window not rolling up or down, its a $800 fix since they have to remove back seat. Fun but won't be buying another when I get paid by insurance!
Fun Car to Drive
Linda , 05/07/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car on a whim and never regretted it! It is a fun car to drive and people are always coming up to me in parking lots and asking me how I like my convertible." I don't like it", I say, "I love it!" Every time another New Beetle convertible passes me the driver will wave and I will wave back. On the more practical side, the car gets about 26 mpg around town, and around 30 on the highway. I have been able to fit an entire JV football team defensive line in the car, and during lacrosse season the pass- through to the trunk allows for long stick defensive players' equipment. The New Beetle handles very well in snow and ice, a must for New Hampshire drivers!
A Return to Basics
magicxtian, 12/03/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
After ten years in the world of trucks, I returned to VW, choosing the Beetle, 20+ years from my first such vehicle. This car is incredibly well built and solid considering its' compact size. Its Interior features are on the high end, making the modern day drive quite easy. The gas mileage on the TDI is over two-and-a-half times improved over my guzzling trucks of yore. It handles great in wintery conditions, accelerates like a charm, and is a real pleasure to drive, even for 6+ hour hauls. If you live in cold climates, I'd recommend the cold weather package as heated seats make a world of difference. Summertime begs for the sun/moon roof, a standard on my model.
My first VW
Maureen, 03/14/2009
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I have recentlly purchased the 2005 New Bettle converatable here in Fl and will be driving it home to Mass. I have owned BMS, Jaguars etc. I am sooo sorry I bought this VW. The warranty ran out 24 days ago, The first day i went to put the rear drivers window down it went down and never came back up. I called VW warrenty Company, they would not offer a dime for repair.Vehicle has only 14K miles.Reading the reviews there is a major window regulator problem with the plastic pieces on the regulator breaking and has been a long ongoing defect.when the class action Law Suit starts on this vehicle I will be on board. I would NEVER buy a VW again. NOW I AM AFRAID TO PUT THE WINDOWS DOWN,ALSO THE TOP
I love it!
annie, 04/28/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Lots of pick up, great for parking, not as fuel efficient as billed, more trunk space than you would think, tight quarters in back seat - really for two people, much more fun to run errands and grocery shop, easy top to operate, good sound system, terrific heating and defrost system, seat warmers work almost too well. When you put in cd rack - no room for any storage.
45 miles to the gallon
Gilbug, 02/13/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love this car however the trunk lock does not work. The power windows go up and down as they please and the interior clock runs fast, about 5 minutes per month. Other than that a great gas car.
Owing a bio bug
David in Colorado, 03/13/2010
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car used for the diesel engine as I was commuting 720 mile per week in my job. The car handled very well in all kinds of weather like snow and ice. Mileage was right at 40 mpg on the highway. I started mixing my own bio fuel 50/50 oil and diesel and was surprised at how well the car ran. about 10-15% loss in power but for the fuel savings I gained it was well worth it. The TDI engine coupled with the Automatic 6- speed gearbox is like new at 116000 miles. I have owned many newe cars in my lifetime and was a Honda owner before this but Volkswagon TDI performance along with durability and realibality really impressed me.
Worst car I have ever owned
Scott, 09/10/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought the car new. With only 22,000 miles we have already spent nearly $2,000 on repairs. As the other reviews stated; stuff just FALLS APART. Several sensors have gone bad - that was expensive enough, now the top is busted. More $$ down the drain. I will never buy another VW product.
Just a cute car, not worth it!
shannon , 05/04/2010
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
For once in my life I wanted a cute car. I got it. Used 2005 GLS lt Blue with a gray top. Yes, I got thumbs up and smiles from perfect strangers. It fit my personality to a T. I made it through the 1st yr, then the back side window broke. right after the warranty ran out! $600 to repair! The other window broke late 2008. I've just dealt with it. The top has now messed up and as I was was hand washing it I saw the top material has pulled away from the back window, water leaking in! Grant it I have 94,000 miles on it. They just don't make them like they used to. I decided it's time for a GOOD car and bought a 2010 Kia Forte Coupe. Yep still FUN, but worth it!
Volkswagen is a poor Quality Car
girlie*girl, 02/15/2010
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
let me just say that I only thought I wanted a bug :0( it was one of the worst things I have ever done in buying that car. it has noises in the cabin that is so irritating! and the cup holders are NOT convenient.. and The Transmission is a major problem !! and almost everyone that has one has problems with the transmission, volkswagen needs to fix this now!! and recall them because of the transmissions!!!!!
Worst car we have ever owned
jpj22, 02/26/2013
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
14 of 17 people found this review helpful
Stay away from this lemon. We got my wife a new one in Aug 2005. That was the happiest day or her life until we got rid of it and then that was the happiest day of her life. Transmission problems, rear side window problems, top problems, sensor problems trim problems. There is no room in the car. I have nothing good to say about this lemon.
VW Corporation does not stand behind it's PRODUCT.
Angelina Massa, 01/10/2017
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2005 New Beetle VW convertible, mellow yellow at the age of 65years old. This was always my dream car. I purchased in Brandon FLorida, paid cash. My car is now 12 years old, I always treated my car like my most treasured possession, my mileage is now 19,000 miles no dents, no scratches, beautiful leather gray interior. At the age of 6 (car age) my interior dash, side panels, front and back and around my steering wheel started getting gummie and stickie. Oh, by the way I am a female. I took it to Myrtle Beach VW to show it to them, before I went I checked for any recall, none reported. The VW Dealer in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, first question out of their mouths (talking to a male) he wanted to know what I used to clean the interior. I immediately became annoyed,and asked would you ask a man that as a first question? I told them I carefully read the Manuel when I purchased the care and I knew what to clean the interior. His claim was that I used something that created the problem. Again I said would you have made that statement to a MAN????? They did not help me at all. I then went to several body shops and found out that they have seen the same thing in other VW New Beetles 2005. Called VW Executive offices and explained the situation to them, again to no avail. I have a perfect exterior, beautiful mileage , great leather interior but the plastic parts of the interior are melting.
2005 Volkswagen Beetle
arlene, 10/04/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I love this car. But here are the negatives in order of importance: Poor visability when backing up. Paint chips off easily inside and out. Problems with flaps and windows (recall).
Gave out with only 86,000 miles!!!
annb, 09/21/2018
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
In the 7 years I owned the car, the rear right side window motor had to be replaced as well as the front driver's side window. Short in the left blinker system that always blew out the left rear signal. The port for ipod hook up burned out. Overall...the electric features were unreliable.
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Yes, it is fun to drive but not comfy.
buggy tag, 09/19/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought the car for the fuel economy and the looks. I have a large SUV and wanted something else to run around in to save gas when I am not hauling tons of kids. I get around 29 mpg both highway 60% and city 40%. I can't get the fuel economy that is stated. I am not a lead foot either. Check this before you buy one. This car is really meant for no more then two people in terms of comfort. I would hate to take a trip in this. The seats are not comfortable at all. They need to build them like domestic seats are built here. Teens hate the back seat. Up to 13 years is O.K. but isn't comfy. Also my dash and handles are peeling the top layer already, I'm not hard on vehicles.
It's a Lime!
stowbound, 11/25/2006
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
If it were yellow, it would be a lemon...instead I bought my wife a lime (green) for her 40th birthday. I believed that German engineering would provide us a good quality car that we could keep for 10+ years. Instead, I have had to sue under the lemon law for our horrible experience. The transmission still not fixed, the sound system rattles, marker lights fall out and dangle from the cords, gaskets come loose and the plastic parts break with ease. It is fun to drive with the top down, but is uncomfortable, gets poor mileage (24 mph, not 30 as advertised) is noisy and just feels cheap. There is also no storage anywhere in the car. This is not a car that will last. What a disappointment!
This car is amazing
Karrie, 08/16/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car is amazing! When I drove it I was sold. Actually I drove a manual turbo frist, then I drove my top of the line tiptronic transmission convertable. Now I am a proud owner. Great on gas. Fun fun fun. I drive it everywhere. It can tackle any hill, mountain or weather. Don't forget it can handle California freeways.
Love it so much, I bought 2!
nursenancy, 04/17/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought the New Beetle convertible the moment it came out. I had owned a New Beetle hatchback for 2 1/2 years and loved it so much I wanted another one. The convertible has much smaller trunk/storage space than the hatchback. If I have to transport anything that is too big to fit in the trunk, I just put the top down! Seriously, these cars handle great. I often drive mountain roads and the car is so stable. It provides a smooth ride and I get about 35 mpg on the highway. I have had zero trouble with it.
Bitten By My Bug
M. Young, 03/02/2009
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
I love driving my bug (even put German tags on the front) - I get compliments from total strangers on it all the time...they say it suits me (I guess I look like the artist/musician I am). All was great until 9 days after my purchase (4200 mi) my check engine light came on. Repeated 13-14 times in the next two years, plus speakers rattled, seat frame on driver's side broke more than once (try driving in a bobbling seat). Rubber coating on inside door handles peeling, interior fabric liner on convertible came loose and draped over window. Thank goodness all repairs so far have been under warranty! Looking for more reliable transport now, but will miss my bug's "cute as a bug" smile. :-(
WOW
Paul, 01/23/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is our third Volkswagen, and our second new Beetle. We decided to go with the TDI on this sunflower yellow purchase. Overall the interior and exterior are pretty much the same as our 2002 turbo GLX Beetle, with the exception of the diesel engine. So far the Beetle has lived up to everything that Volkswagen has promised from it. The fit and finish are excellent. For a diesel it is amazingly quiet and is responsive to acceleration. It has surpassed our expectations on mile to the gallon. My fun meter is always pegged whenever I drive either Beetle. I can't say enough good things about the new beetle. Suspension, handling, economy, acceleration, features, fun, it is peerless in its class.
Get a manual
Sarah, 04/21/2010
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After reading some of these reviews, I'm not surprised that people had a lot of problems with the automatic transmission. My second VW was an automatic and I had to replace the transmission at 60K miles. Instead of letting the lease run it's course, I got a great deal on my Bug Convertible. It's a manual transmission and have experienced NONE of the problems that my last VW had. The car is fun and sporty. Not too fast, but I drive like an old lady anyway. I also don't commute for work so my mileage is way low. I would recommend this car to anyone that's willing to buy manual, makes it even more fun.
Poor car
Dale Mayhall, 08/17/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The VW convertible would not shift into overdrive in cold weather for the first twelve miles. Windows squeeked against top. I had to visit the dealer twelve times for repairs in less than a year. I sold the car two days ago.
Hippie car
richard, 07/22/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought the car new in march of 2005. A fun car to drive, gas mileage is 24 around town and 29 on the highway. We have taken this car on three long distance trips with no problems at all. We use the back seat for luggage as the trunk is not of any use for suitcases.
Convertible Bug
sherri, 02/20/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The GLS automatic tiptronic 4 cylinder convertible Bug rocks No comparison to the reg beetle, it's much more of a car in the way it rides as well as being loaded with the heated seats and outdoor mirrors, air, stereo, etc. It beats the hard top. I'm hoping it will last. I love the top and I wish the seats were a bit better, like real leather and with heavy rubber footing throughout instead of carpet. Other than that, it's cool. No problem yet with light on dash coming on like the past Beetle I owned, hopefully never will. VW is known for engine sensor light on a lot so the mechanics tell me, and through my own experience as well. Its great in the snow!
Poor mans porsche
fun in the sun, 04/28/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car the power top is simple to operate. I t handles great 6 speed transmission automatic is great!!! It does have blind spots when top is up.I think for the money is a wonderful car!!
Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
Logan, 04/28/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased a Aquarius Blue Beetle Convertible. It is the best car in the world. I'm in High school and this car is perfect for running around and doing errands. Youll look super hott cruising around town in one of these. All my friends think my car is the cutest car ever. When i first got the car i was very worried that the backseat wouldnt be big enough for anything but i found out that is bigger than i thought. I love all the safety features this car has. If i were to somehow flip, the backseat's headrests are actually titanium bars that deploy and keep the car steady so it wouldnt squish anyone and wouldnt have an ugly rollover bar over the top. This car is the cutest and greatest car!
My vw limited edition convertible
KAREN DENTZ, 04/29/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have the special edition, dark flint editiion, the 2.0 Is well worth the price compared to the turbo. You aint going to race anyone in your beatle
Why I won't buy another VW
DrRix, 01/29/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Dark Flint Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have been leasing the '05 VW New Beetle Convertible, a special edition in dark flint with a red top, red wheel trim, red leather seats. I've never gotten more compliments, and never driven anything that completely feel apart on me before, even when I had an old Toyota truck with no power steering and a leaking oil tank. Parts just fall right off this car - seat headrests, the glove compartment handle, the sideview mirror adjustment knob, random plastic parts that I don't even know where they came from. German cars used to be good, but these aren't made in Germany anymore, and they are CRAP. Don't buy!!
Exploding Windows
gretche, 07/27/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We have enjoyed driving our New Beetle, we have been VW owners since the late 50's and our daughter still has her first car, 1971 Beetle Convertible. We will be forced to get rid of our car because the window on the driver's door has exploded twice. Our car is almost out of warantee and VW has told us that if the window explodes again, it will be our expense. We feel this is a danger but there has been no recall or service notes on it. VW of America's answer to us is, "we are very sorry." We feel we will have to get rid of the car before one of us loses an eye. Our dealership has admitted to having several cars with similar problems, sometimes it is the passenger door.
The cutest!!!
Tracy Wilson, 03/25/2016
updated 03/26/2018
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Love this cute car!!! It's perfect for me with the sunroof leather interior etc. I feel like I'm driving my Audi A4 convertible
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
buy it
JBo, 03/07/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Awesome car! Fuel economy is a plus, although the potential to have fun and drive this car aggressively doesn't help fuel economy. I don't miss my Audi A6 quattro one bit. In the first month I drove from Durham NC to Florida for the hoidays and felt safe sailing along I95 with big rigs, SUVs and countless bad drivers. I got waves, smiles and only stopped for diesel once on the way down - about 500 miles into the trip. I wouldn't want to sit in the back seat for too long, but I had plenty of room for all my xmas presents on the way home!! Go for it, you know you want one!
Fahrvergnugen
heme3, 09/15/2008
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Good 2 go for a second "fun" car. Purchased used from a VW dealer, everything seems to be fine. Solid ride, little 2.0 engine runs on the cheap gas, convertible works very nicely. By far the coolest convertible you can pick up nowadays for $17K. If you want to go fast, buy something else. This car is for cruising. Almost bought the turbo version, used price is about the same, but the 1.8 turbo engine only runs on 93+ octane. Actually, the 2.0 engine seemed smoother than the 1.8 turbo with the automatic trans. 1.8 turbo with manual was best, tho. New 2.5 engine with automatic is perfect, but was out of my price range.
Too much fun!
Ann, 05/12/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 1.8T 2dr Convertible (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have to admit it...this is a fun car. The turbo gives it a lot of pick up, especially when you're merging into traffic. You can't help but feel young and happy when driving it. It sure does beat my mini-van!
Great little car!
NVServ, 05/23/2006
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GL 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I haven't regretted for an instant buying this little guy. Other than some warranty work for an airbag issue, which was dealt with painlessly on my part (including a loaner car for the month we were without his services), he has handled beautifully and been trouble free!
Happy Car!
Denise in MI, 07/10/2006
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just love my Beetle Conv. This is my second New Beetle and I will probably buy a third. The color is great, it rides great and everywhere I go it makes people smile! It's been a great summer in MI for having the top down! (wind stop purchase recommended) this car even rides great in the snow, I love the ESP feature. The first little slip and sldie and it kickes in. The 6 speed Tiptronic transmission is gonna get me in trouble! It's not the old VW, no charge cards required to scrape the frost off the windshield, it has great heat and air conditioning (People who remember the old VW know what I'm talking about.). All these new features blow people away. Once again it's a happy car, It makes people smile!
I love the bug!
Laura, 05/28/2005
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle GLS 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my VW Bug convertable for almost a year and a half and I totally love it! It drives smoothly, it looks hot, and you can get it in fun colors! I wouldnt be happier with any other car. Its fun and you will be more than happy to dirve it. I've never had any problems with it either, never! Enjoy the car, I know you will!