Used 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle Consumer Reviews
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My experience...
mystry, 10/08/2011
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
41 of 41 people found this review helpful
This was my dream car, but it's expensive. I bought the car new in 07 and have loved it, but it gets a lot of small quirks that add up. I am on my 3rd radio b/c the buttons wear down, a battery costs $195 b/c auto shops will not install it you must go to the dealer, the door panels eventully wear down, and indicator lights are always coming on. I spend more time at dealerships and more money on this car than any other car i've ever owned. I've not had as much trouble as some of these reviews, but i've had enough that my dream car is getting traded.... I am tired of spending money on a car that is paid for with less than 100K miles on it. PS, expect to get about 330 miles to a tank.
Diesels require expensive maintaince
tool cat, 10/15/2016
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
36 of 38 people found this review helpful
I found out after the purchase that this TDI engine requires special oil that must meet the VW spec #505.01 which is very hard to find. Also the lower engine plastic guard must be removed every time just to change the oil. The filter is easily accessible. This engine (PD/BEW) has had some trouble with the camshafts. Which is why the special oil. Also the cam belt must be changed according to the schedule or you risk the engine blowing up do to the belt braking. Most other vehicle now use a cam chain instead of the toothed belt. It has plenty of power with the turbo kicking in. Mileage has been 40 - 43.5 mpg
55,000 miles and the car won't start!
beetle_owner, 08/03/2012
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
42 of 45 people found this review helpful
This is the cutest most fun to drive car ever....when it works. Oh...are you thinking about taking the car to a mechanic outside of the dealership to have it worked on for cheaper? Don't even think about it...many mechanics either won't want to touch your beetle or they will not be able to fix it since it's an electrical nightmare that's built like a puzzle! And how is it that a chord has broken on the top? That happened at about 40,000 miles. One more thing...if something breaks, like the radio...you have to get it fixed right away before it starts affecting other electrical things in the car...sigh...selling it asap once it comes out the shop (been there a month already).
Little Green Machine
RsWine5, 07/11/2009
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 PZEV 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
27 of 29 people found this review helpful
All I can say is I love it! I went from a F150 to a Bug. It drives like a sports car, the handling is great. 2 weeks after my purchase I drove R/T from Texas to West Virginia, the gas seemed to last forever, comfortable the whole way. I had the oil changed when I returned + tire rotation, cost - 18.79. I was told to have the oil changed every 5000 miles. All in all, it's a great little car! Oh, one problem: Trying to get a 100 pound Lab in the back seat for her Vet visit.
Have Loved Every Mile Driving My Bug!
Cheryl Tamburri, 07/25/2016
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
33 of 36 people found this review helpful
My 2006 VW NEW BEETLE 6 speed A/T came with everything available, clear down to convertible top boot, wind screen, leather everything, seat warmers, satellite radio. Arctic Blue with a gray top has been a rarity out here in CA, but that top has been down a zillion times in CA weather. 10 years and 80,000 miles later it still drives like the day I bought it; but it has been lovingly maintained and service schedules followed - the key to any car's longevity. Turbos were standard in this model and this little car kicks gas, so fun to drive. Having said that, it's a Bug, low tech as they come but efficient and with usual German sensibility everything is where it should be in the cockpit. Time to part company with the old girl, not easy, as she still looks like the day she left the dealer's lot. Hope she'll make somebody else as tickled to drive her as I've been ~ truly, best cat ever.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
My Beetle
Spongebob, 01/10/2007
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
This is the third Beetle I have owned since 1998. The improvements are obvious from the styling to the dropped outside mirrors for better visibility. This car isn't for everyone. It's for fun loving people who like a car that looks like no other, handles great, and performs flawlessly. it fits me to a T and I wouldn't even consider another car on the road today. It is unique.
A Responsible Mode of Transport
W Benson, 08/22/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
16 of 17 people found this review helpful
This is a "poor man's Porsche." It is really fun to drive. It accelerates uphill like a scared rabbit (pardon the unintended reference to another VW model). Plus it is VERY economical on fuel.
I wanted to love it!
patriciagilson, 08/23/2012
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
28 of 31 people found this review helpful
I bought this car and it was my dream car. I was really sad when teh leather seats started to rip, when I am a gentle driver and dont weigh a lot or do anything to wear them down. The headlights die, no joke, every six months and are expensive and a pain in the booty to fix yourself. The airbag light is on, the gas cap light goes on and off for no reason while I drive. I am at 100k miles and my check engine light came on. I took it to an auto part store to diagnose it and it ran FIFTEEN codes. my o2 senor and lots of misfires and leaks and when I chenged my oil it came out lumpy, even though i change it on time EVERY time. To be fair it has never broke down on me, but parts are expensive.
I wouldn't do VW again.
peppi1, 05/15/2013
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
29 of 33 people found this review helpful
I happen to like my little car a great deal. I never dreamt that I would have ever owned a New Beetle Convertible. I like the color, build, and style. I rated the interior poorly because any time a part is needed, which is not that often, I find myself having to dish out a heck of a lot of hard-earned bills. To replace a simple part, VW interior parts come with the whole entire assembly... I guess they hope that they will get all of your money. It does not make sense to have to replace the entire assembly just to need one small part. The parts are too expensive.If you touch the dashboard it bruises easily and my car leaks heavily when it rains when the windows are rolled up completely!
Dissapointed and frustrated
imaqte, 06/29/2012
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
26 of 30 people found this review helpful
I purchased my used 2006 VW convertible about 9 months ago with 51,000 miles on it. Since I have had it, I have had numerous issues. First, the airbag light came on and I was told is a seat-belt issue that costs around $400. Next the driver's side door handle broke that cost $600 because they have to replace the entire door panel. I read online this frequently happens. My driver's side window regulator went out and that cost me $470.00 to fix..now I have to take to replace the convertible top because the back window is separating from the top and water can get in. The total for that is $770.00 from a local shop I am afraid of what will happen next. I have to get rid of this car!!!
No Problems for us
Rochestervwowner, 11/07/2010
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
My wife purchased this for her summer car and we garage it from November thru April. The only problem we have had was a stuck spring on the passenger seat, and that was probably from my nephew slamming the seat back to hard. Covered by warranty, no questions asked. Otherwise, the car has been a joy to own. The oil changes are 20.00 more expensive than usual. No big deal. Liked it so much we bought a Passat, which has been equally great. I was surprised to read all the comments about problems with this car as we have had none.
2005 Beetle
jackson, 11/19/2005
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I was very excited to buy my 2006 Volkswagen Beetle. It's cool looking and fun to drive, but belive every bit of bad press that you read because the build quality is awful. I own a 1971 VW that is actually more reliable than this thing. Save your money and sanity and buy something else.
Volkswagen should be ashamed of themselves
IhateVW, 02/10/2009
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
I purchased the car of my dreams an aqua blue Beetle convertible, little did I know, my dreams would turn into a nightmare. Since purchasing this car last year it has been in the shop 12 times. I did not have it in for minor repairs these were all MAJOR! New transmission, new computer system, the top broke 2 times, the heating and cooling system failed 3 times and the car overheated twice. This car a piece of junk and I would not recommend it to ANYBODY. When Volkswagen was contacted regarding these issues, I basically got a so what tough luck response. SHAME ON VOLKSWAGEN.
The True Herbie
MJ North Carolina, 06/24/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful
This is the car I have been waiting for. It gets great gas mileage, a big car ride, and is so much fun to drive. I can go anywhere, do anything, and do it in style and luxury. I think the Japanese could learn a thing or two from the engineers at Wolfsburg in design and functionality.
Luv My Bug
Jennifer B, 03/24/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is the car I have always wanted! It's fun to drive and the new Gecko Green for 2006 is so pretty! I got the manual transmission with package one and satellite radio.
Great ride !
Dano, 05/25/2009
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I just purchased a leased 2006 conv. beatle...pale blue/black top. I've read these discontented reviews ,but, I feel great about my bug! When I purchased it there was still a 2 year original warranty on it. I also added 2 more years, which I would recommend with any used vehicle. I can't believe it rides like a large vehicle for such a small wheel base. I did have a/c compressor go out but it was under warranty and repaired in one day. It's ice cold! rear window would not go back up. again repaired in one day NO CHARGE. folks at the dealership are very nice, friendly, and professional. Absolute fun. People often let me know they love the look.
VW=excellence!!!!!
jsonaday, 12/31/2011
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
this car is the best ive owned.! great amount of power from the 2.5 5cyl. it can be small at times but remember...its a coupe convertible...no car will be big in the back. i hav not had to replace anything except for the brake pads but its the first time for that and i hav and its got 35k miles on it
Never Again
Cory, 09/26/2008
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This lease has become the bane of my existence. The car has broken down five times in two years (and that's not counting the small problems when I could still drive it). Bad enough it keeps breaking, but VW does NOTHING to stand behind their product. The transmission leaked when I drove it off the lot. No loaner cars, no concern for my safety. They kept telling me that they valued me as a customer, but what they value is my money.
Fun car....but there are issues
kris, 03/23/2008
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought my 06' after a ton of research. I really love my car, it's fun to drive and i get pretty good gas mileage. I've had a TON of issues with my dealership, so don't go to Fladebo in Irvine CA. Also, my car kept overheating and my temp light kept flashing red. It took 4 days for the dealership to fix it and the entire coolant system had to be replaced (thankfully it was covered by my warranty). My top gets stuck sometimes too, and wont go all the way down. Surprisingly good trunk and passenger space. My husband is 6'2" and has lots of leg room. The car drives pretty well, but it can be really bumpy. By far one of the best convertibles for under 25K.
Fun with the Top Down
nancy, 08/12/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love my new purchase. It is well worth every penny. I looked at a few convertibles and for the money it is an amazing vehicle. It is not my only car so I don't have to depend on it during the winter snow months, but I do hear that is should handle great during that time. I am actually confident that it will because so far I am very impressed. I like to drive larger vehicles (SUVs) and I was very surprised that I did not feel confined when I sat in this car for the first time. I love driving it and can't wait everyday to get into it. I have not driven my SUV since. I bought it somewhat because of gas prices and fun but the gas mileage is an added bonus. I love it, love it, love it.
2006 New Beetle Convertible, 2.5 pkg 2
Steve56, 04/01/2010
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
My wife has always wanted the New Beetle convertible. So I did quite a bit of research online and read many reviews, pro and con. After many months of searching, we finally found the car my wife has been dreaming about. We've only had the car for one week. It's a really fun car to drive, especially with the top down. It handles very well on the highway and gets pretty good gas mileage. There are a couple blind spots but that's normal for most convertibles. It's the heaviest car I've ever owned. You feel like you're riding in a tank!! Overall, I would recommend this car for someone looking for a fun drive. Just watch out for all the stares you're going to get!!
Ugly is only skin deep
Sue, 06/25/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
14 of 17 people found this review helpful
This is our fourth VW and third diesel VW. We wanted a new Golf TDI but couldn't find one with the feathures we needed. The Jetta was bigger than we needed and we weren't attracted to the New Beetle. On a whim we test drove the Beetle and we were hooked. It handles very well, is comfortable for the driver and passenger (we rarely have more than two of us), and started off getting 43 mpg. Although we bought this to commute the 1 1/2 hours to work, we find ourselves using this car for trips and general driving around. We love it.
Once and Done
never again VW, 08/07/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Of all the cars I have ever known this by far was absolutely the biggest nightmare. If I added all my repair receipts I could have bought this car twice. There has been nothing mechanical or otherwise about this car that has not been repaired or replaced. I have had this car in the shop at least six times this year. I wish there was something good to say about this car since I have wanted to own one all of my life, but I guess the good Lord was trying to tell me something. Now all I want to do is get rid of it as soon as possible. That won't happen though until I get it fixed.
Two in the garage
Bob Lykins, 03/28/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My wife and I can afford any type of car made, but we both bought new VW Beetle convertibles late last year, and we absolutely love them. I have a 2005 turbo, whereas my wife picked a 2006 2.5. The car is solid! It is amazingly quiet with the top up, and is extremely comfortable (I'm 6'3 and have more head and legroom than I did in my Toyota 4Runner!). We both get excellent gas mileage and we feel very safe on the interstates. I haven't had this much fun in a car since high school and college!
What a lemon
Valerie, 05/19/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
As cute as this car is, I can't explain how horrible the last 11 months have been with it. With my two previous cars we had zero problems, I suppose I made up for all that time with my Beetle. Thankfully, there have been no major mechanical problems. However, random reflectors have just fallen off, and if I'm lucky, both turn signals work. The seats could be more comfortable, and it's difficult to adjust the angle with the round "knobs." I don't drive much at all and I fill up two times a week. My car gets terrible gas mileage. I'll be selling the car before it's a year old.
2006 Volkswagen Beetle
sam , 11/10/2005
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
My 2006 Volkswagen Beetle is a great, fun to drive, the engine is peppy with plenty of power, you get a lot for your money in this car. I have only a few concerns, the wind noise. With the CD going you'll never notice it though. Also, the car's ride is a bit stiff and it doesn't take bumps well. There is an engine (drivetrain) rattle/noise about 1,500 rpm that seems to get better the warmer the car gets. Overall this is a lot of car for the money. The base price gets you air, electric locks / windows, cruise, and more.
Love my Bug
Bug sailing, 06/04/2009
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
This is my 4th VW. My first was a 1974 Super Beetle loved it,Rabbit Convertible fun, 03' Convertible new beetle, and my current purchase is a pre-owned 06' new beetle. Of course the beetle has changed since the early years but they are sooo fun to drive and still after all these years get the heads turning. Everyone loves the bug!I love the tight feel of the new bug,one could almost think they are driving a real sports car! Service is good and I love Bug sailing!(driving with the top down) My only complaint is there is no cargo space limits your shopping!I shall check back later!
Avoid like the Plague
harold, 09/18/2010
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
You may think it's cute, but dont let that exterior fool you, this thing is an engineering nightmare. 2 headlights burn out quickly in under 2 years, rear brake light in 1 year, ALL four windows get stuck or regulartor breaks, 5 visits to fix the convertible stop getting stuck, lots of issues with convertible cords breaking and snapping.
Great Fun Car
shawn, 09/07/2005
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
This little vehicle is extremely trust worthy, and gets 45 mpg regularly, just driving around with mixed highway and city miles. It starts at -30 degree weather, great car for your future kids to get to college on.
Love my Beetle!
Laurie, 06/18/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I went from a 2003 Grand Am GT to the new Beetle and I am extremely happy with my decision. This car is extremely fun to drive, it has quite a zip to it! It is nice and roomy inside, everyone who has taken a ride with me can't believe they are in a Beetle because of how roomy it is. I have over 200 miles on it and still have a half a tank of gas! The controls in the car are very easy to use and i love the built in MP3 jack. The cup holder location is a little awkward, but nothing that would have changed my decision about the car. If you are looking for a quick, fun to drive car, look no further!
Great Car
David, 10/01/2005
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My Volkswagen Beetle is a very soundly built car, loads of fun to drive, and absolutely a fuel sipper. It feels like you're driving and riding in a much larger vehicle.
Great car!
Thomas, 07/24/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We have had the car for about a month now and love it! We have had a Buick Rendezvous for five years, so we really did not know how we would like being in a little car and riding down low to the ground - but we really like how it feels on the road. It is surprisingly smooth on the highway as we took a recent two-hour trip that was very comfortable. In town we love how it handles in traffic with its peppy engine. It is not a luxury car, but a fun sports car. Our friends and family are surprised how roomy it is inside when they ride in it for the first time.
No more VW ANYTHING! for me!!
Peppi, 10/01/2017
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
9 of 13 people found this review helpful
I dig my car a lot! I have had my car for about 11 years now and I never used to have ANY issues with my car. However, this will be THE LAST! Volkswagen vehicle of ANY kind for me! They used to make Beetles to where they lasted for decades, but not really anymore. I know that vehicles are machines; therefore, they are going to have some issues, but come on!! One thing after another!! When one thing breaks- here breaks something else. The air bag light came on allegedly having to do with a code, but then I needed a newer battery that I had just bought not even quite 4 years prior! I was told that little things like the air bag will come on so it will bother you to take it do the dealership to get it repaired- they will find something the matter. After so many miles that you drive, little things like the light to something will appear among other things, too. I have also learned that when you buy a vehicle, make sure that you will be able to afford the parts- VW parts are WAAAAAAY to expensive! The car is expensive enough! When I see people driving down the road with a new Beetle, I think to myself that they have no idea what they have just gotten themselves into. The interior can be of better quality and material given fact that the car is very expensive. I have also learned that if you buy a Beetle convertible, keep in mind that the convertible top may be of very poor and of cheap quality; you will most likely need to replace the convertible top eventually and they are NOT cheap. I am done- NO more for me!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Great Car
L. Bruce, 08/06/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I just bought my VW Beetle for my 120 mile round trip to work each day. It is already paying for itself. It provides great performance, fuel economy, and styling. The back seat is cramped but the front seats are very comfy. I got it with a 100,000 warranty, I will probably do that many miles in it in two years, and will then rate this vehicle again. So far, I love it! I plan to do 40,000 miles a year. This is the car for it.
Never Again
txjules77, 05/16/2008
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I'm just waiting for my lease to end. This is my 2nd VW (I leased a Jetta previously, similar problems). I refuse to take it to the dealership for oil changes bc it would cost me $80+/oil change! This car has lived in the shop. I've had constant electrical problems, including the traction light staying on (and waiting a full day for the new part to come in), the seatbelt light coming at random (they said they "couldn't duplicate the problem" so they couldn't fix it), back latch doesn't work. I'm fed up with VW in general. And customer service sucks. With all the repairs, they don't offer a free rental car. The only way I got on with the last repair is the guy who drives you home was not in.
Better than the Last...
Justin, 08/27/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I used to own a 2001 Beertle. This one, a 2006 model, is much nicer all the way around. Plus it doesn't have the disappearing oil, where I would find myself a half a quart low after a couple of months.
VW - look what you made me go through
E, 04/13/2010
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this one brand new, first week the wiper blade motor failed on a rainy night on fwy 101. 13 warranties were done on first two years of ownership. For the past 4 years, I had 20 visits to the dealership including oil change, recall, warranties so I am always there every 3 months. I had an oil change done on the 50k mileage and took it back to the dealer when i found oil leaks. They changed the drain plug but after 2 days I need to bring it back to the dealer for more oil leak. Brought it in the morning, then they can't find the source of the oil leak I was told to leave it overnight. Spent so much money for regular maintenance all done through dealers. So unfair, VW. You're so unfair.
My office in trying times
Samwise, 04/25/2023
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased an optioned out, 06 TDI for a fair price from a good owner in late 2021 It had less than 50k miles on it and was an upgrade from the minivan with half a brake system I'd used for doordash. Heinz (as he is called) has been the perfect vehicle for gig work on the side, even when diesel was 4.99 a gallon in the cheap markets. Yes he's had his fair share of BS issues with head and taillights but those can be fixed with a YouTube video. Shockingly spacious in the front for me, a 6'4" 275 pound male, and have fit 4 in it comfortably. These little cars are badass
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
My wife loves it but I don't
Different Opinions, 07/06/2007
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My wife is totally happy with the car. It is a reincarnate of her '69 convertible. I find the gas mileage to be low (only 22 mpg AFTER they fixed the transmission. It was way lower) and lots of quality control issues; they left the suspension blocking in when they prepped the car, there was no heat when stopped at stop lights due to improperly filled radiator (my wife that this was normal for a Beetle), the roof boot does not snap into place, the transmission shift computer failed, and if you look at the paint wrong, it scratches. It is powerful and comfortable, and does have a distinctive style. My wife loves the car. The 10K checkup is Monday and that will be $300 for an oil change!
Not happy
Beth P. , 05/26/2009
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Have owned this vehicle less than 3 years and I have had to have the drivers side headlight replaced twice. The driverside exterior mirror just cracked down the middle for no reason. I have had trouble with the power windows. Have spoken with other owners and their having the same electrical problems. I am not impressed with this vehicle. Planning on trading it in on something more reliable.
In Love with My Beetle
Liz, 10/28/2005
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 PZEV 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I went from having a Ford Explorer to my 2006 Volkswagen Beetle, so the change in what I was spending on gas was fantastic. I also went from having a 6-cyclinder to a 5, honestly you can't tell the difference. And don't think you're going to feel like just another person with a Beetle. The new lights and lines make it look noticeably different. It is so fun to drive, so really get the dealership to let you test drive it. If you get the harvest beige, the Mr. Clean magic erasers are awesome at getting left over adhesive and little skuff marks off the car :).
The End of a 35 Year VW Relationship
Elenewlife, 05/04/2010
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I grew up in a VW family; everyone drove them. I've had over 15 myself. The trans was defective from day 1 and VW did nothing to help. When it broke around 10,000 they said I must be "riding the clutch". Many of these vehicles had flywheel problems; VW did nothing. Mine overheated in traffic; couldn't go on hills; shook all over and became disabled. The lights were an issue; windows and also the A/C compressor. I have always bought VW because they were reliable and VW stood behind them. Cute and responsive yet it was manufactured with a defect that VW should've recalled and replaced. They lost me permanently and should be quite ashamed of how they treated many loyal customers.
Fun to drive, keep your walking shoes
George H., 01/07/2008
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Hatchback (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Great visibility and fast, fun ride. Be prepared with your cell phone--mine has quit running twice, needed tow, took about a week to repair each time. Trunk won't unlock 80% of the time with either the remote or inside release and one of the remote key fobs just quit working. This review is from the owner of a 2005 Mercedes SLK (so I know fun to drive) and a 2006 Honda Ridgeline (so I know high quality). Before it's out of warranty I'm going to get something else--another Beetle if the JD Powers and Consumer's Reports ratings improve. This beetle replaced a 2001 model I bought used; that one never broke. In fairness, this is a very early build of the new model.
Mellow yellow
Missy, 10/27/2015
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 PZEV 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 5M)
7 of 12 people found this review helpful
I love my bug, I have one constant problem the head liner pops out from the back window every time I put the top down .Has been to the shop numerous times
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
The little one that could
Dr Richard Ray Shreve, 03/25/2018
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
The handling, braking, road feel, engine performance (given regular fuel additives), & get up and go in comfort and safety are superb. Interior materials not so much, especially door panels and handles. Seating is comfortable after one learns to get in and out. For 2 people only unless in a pinch. Excellent mileage, 40 mpg but with higher priced diesel fuel. Repairs & parts at dealers are expensive. Powerful smooth running engine. Needs a new battery every other year or so. RR$, Ph.D.
- Performance
- Interior
2006 TDI Tiptronic
Brett F, 08/27/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We scrambled to find a TDI Beetle with package 1 options including sunroof, heated seats, and leatherette interior. My wife drives it about 420 miles a week and is averaging 36-38 mpg in mostly city use. The car got about 42 mpg hwy the one time we had it on the road at 65 mph with A/C on. The 6-speed auto transmission can be shifted manually or fully auto. It shifts smoothly and quietly and the 1.9L turbodiesel spools very efficiently. The ride is a bit stiff, but it is smooth. The seats are a bit of a pain to adjust but the controls work well. Don't expect the luggage room of an SUV, but it is good for groceries and weekenders. We liked it so much we went out and bought a 2004 manual TDI too!
The Cutest Car on the Road but...
colorado1974, 07/14/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
We, like 1,000 other VW owners are filing for lemon law this year. Of the few months we have had it, most of the time has been spent in the dealership's service driveway instead of ours. The windows randomly go down, the front logo peeled off, the starter doesn't work all the time, the radio quit, the top broke twice, there is a metallic sound from the front and the kicker is that I am only getting 20 mpg at best. The window sticker said I'd do much better. Everytime I get the car back it is fixed but after a couple weeks, more problems seem to set it back. Ugh.
Great Car!
John E. Semken, Jr., 03/16/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI 2dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have driven my Beetle to Orlando, FL. It is great fun to drive, very comfortable, and gets great mileage - 43 mpg. I have had several people comment on the beauty of my car. It has plenty of power.
Fun, but...
beachbum66, 02/20/2010
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 PZEV 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very fun car to drive, but consistent reliability and quality control issues throughout. This is also a very expensive car to get serviced and repaired. Ours stranded us (wouldn't start) several times due to a problem with the theft control system which was eventually fixed via a recall. Also had problems with the headlights , window motor and convertible top which resulted in repeated returns to the dealership and the car being off the road multiple days. Car is also exceedingly susceptible to dings. It is a fun car, but its reliability issues and extreme service costs really detract from the overall satisfaction with the vehicle.
Cool Car
slug bug red, 01/13/2006
2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 2.5 2dr Convertible (2.5L 5cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've had our Volkswagen Beetle Convertible for a couple of months. It's a cool car. My wife loves to borrow it from me. We bought the base model with the auto transmission and satellite radio, mainly because of worries about the semi-auto top breaking during the life of the car. Inside, everything is easy to operate and clearly labeled. The console redesign is nice - two cups fit with room for a cell phone and iPod. The radio has a jack for iPods or MP3 players. The engine is peppy and has plenty of power for freeway passing. The car easily hits triple digit speeds but its attitude is that of a cruiser. I'm a bit disappointed with the gas mileage, 21-22mpg freeway / city on 89 octane.
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