The 2009 Volkswagen New Beetle is a compact car that maintains virtually the same body style with which it debuted back in 1998. The only major change to the vehicle for the 2009 model year is the removal of trim levels. Both the coupe and the convertible are available in only a single trim level, which incorporates a wide number of previously optional equipment and options.
Both versions of the Beetle make use of the same engine and provide a choice of two transmission types (the convertible only has one transmission option). The 2.5-liter 5-cylinder is an inline model and does not offer turbocharged performance. Likewise, the TDI model has been discontinued, as sales of the Beetle have remained flat. The coupe can be equipped with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the convertible is only available with the automatic transmission.
Both the coupe and the convertible are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, a premium audio system, remote keyless entry, MP3 connectivity and satellite radio. The coupe does have the option of adding a factory sunroof, a rear spoiler, a 6-disc CD changer and 17-inch alloy wheels. The convertible only offers the choice of 17-inch alloy wheels.
2009 Volkswagen New Beetle Performance
The single engine provided in both Beetle models offers considerable torque response for quick takeoffs from a stop. However, the vehicle lacks acceleration at higher RPM ranges and is left behind by most vehicles in its class. That said, the Beetle truly shines in the area of handling. The steering is accurate and responsive, making it a fun car to drive around curves on back roads, or through the urban jungle.
The Beetle also offers a smooth, comfortable ride, though jarring can occur over larger bumps. The solid construction by VW makes the vehicle feel very stable no matter the driving conditions. The New Beetle also enjoys better than average fuel economy, with the manual transmission coming in at 28 mpg for highway driving and 20 mpg for in-town driving. The addition of an automatic transmission does not change the fuel economy ratings, so both transmissions are viable options for those seeking fuel savings.
The Beetle enjoys plenty of stopping power, but the ride can be quite noisy. The inline 5-cylinder engine can be heard at all speeds and the vehicle does suffer from some wind noise, though it is not tremendous. Road noise is only noticeable over rough roads.
2009 Volkswagen New Beetle Interior
The interior of the New Beetle has not changed appreciably from the original 1998 model. The interior is still dominated by plastic, still contains some very flimsy elements and still feels cheap. However, all that plastic overlays German engineering, which helps mitigate the feel of an unrefined design.
Controls and gauges can be difficult to read for some drivers, though all driving gauges are located within direct eye line for the driver. Audio and HVAC controls can be difficult to reach for some drivers, forcing them to take their eyes off the road to locate them.
Additionally, the front seats enjoy plenty of leg and headroom, as well as providing a comfortable perch for any type of driving, from short stints to full days on the road. Visibility can be marred from the front by the thick pillars that form the distinctive "arch" of the vehicle.
Rear seating is cramped, to put it mildly, even more so than many other models in the same class. Even shorter riders will feel the pinch when sitting in the rear. Cargo space is yet another detraction – the Beetle has almost not trunk space and the number of built-in storage areas in the cabin is very limited.
2009 Volkswagen Beetle Safety Features
The Beetle does offer a few safety features. These include stability control, active front head restraints, side impact airbags, dual front airbags and antilock brakes all the way around. However, the NHTSA gave the Beetle a "Poor" score for side impact, but a "Good" rating for frontal impacts. The convertible model offers rollover protection for drivers, as well.
Summary
While the staid and somewhat boring Beetle is still around, it may be time for VW to send it back for a much-needed total redesign. The vehicle does offer fun driving for some, but the drawbacks to ownership can be considerable. Most drivers will benefit from purchasing a different vehicle, such as the VW Rabbit or another model in the same class.