2007 Volkswagen Beetle

As the New Beetle from Volkswagen celebrates its 10th anniversary (since its reintroduction in 1998, that is), the automaker apparently plans a rather quiet celebration, since not much is new for the 2007 model year. The Beetle still retains its contemporary/retro styling, which has been tweaked over the past decade but never radically altered. And power is still provided by a 2.5-liter, 150-hp gas engine, introduced in 2006, which is linked to either a five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with the Tiptronic shift control feature.

Standard features for the 2007 Beetle include power steering, power windows and doorlocks, heated power mirrors, a center console with storage, remote power door locks, cruise control, traction control, stability control, leatherette upholstery, anti-lock brakes, and a remote anti-theft alarm system.

A few years ago, VW introduced MP3 playback capabilities into the Beetle's AM/FM/CD audio system, and for 2007 offers another innovation. For a limited time through December 2006, the automaker is giving away a First Act guitar with the sale of any Beetle (or other VW model). The guitar plugs right into the Beetle and plays through the car's stereo system.