2006 Volkswagen Beetle Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
How do you change a modern classic? Very carefully. For 2006, Volkswagen gave its New Beetle a styling update, though at first glance you...
How do you change a modern classic? Very carefully. For 2006, Volkswagen gave its New Beetle a styling update, though at first glance you might be hard pressed to tell exactly what's changed. But the truth is, there's a lot that's new about the New Beetle for 2006, both inside and out.
For starters, VW offers the Beetle with an innovative new 2.5-liter, 250-hp, 20-value gas engine, which the automaker describes as a "spitfire." The engine was first offered on the Jetta and incorporates a cylinder head design borrowed from the Lamborghini Gallaro V10. (If you have to borrow, it might as well be from the best.)
Meanwhile, the TDI turbodiesel engine gets more horsepower (100, to be exacty) as well as a new pump injector system called Pumpe Duse. Overall, the turbodiesel is quieter, gives off cleaner emissions, and is still VW's most fuel-efficient engine.
Outside, Volkswagen redesigned the Beetle's headlights and taillights so that they provide increased visibility. The front and rear bumpers are now sleeker, and front turn signals are slimmer. Inside, the car received a redesigned center console with a built-in storage compartment and cupholders, as well as a redesigned instrument cluster and additional chrome detailing around the vents and speedometer. Another cool feature is the addition of a second sun visor over the driver's-side window.
Overall, drivers liked the updeated 2006 Beetle, especially the new 2.5-liter engine which, drivers noted, provided a nice power boost. On top of that, it still gets great gas mileage, several drivers observed. And while one driver liked the new driver's-side sun visor, she notes that it came at the expense of a sunglass holder, which was removed. The updated looks were a hit, as was the car's handling and economy, which has been a positive point with drivers since the Beetle was reintroduced in 1998.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2006 Volkswagen Beetle enjoy its fun driving experience, responsive handling, and appealing design. Many appreciate its unique look, good mileage, and solid performance. However, some drivers criticize the maintenance costs, parts availability, and certain engineering flaws. While many find it reliable, there are notable concerns about engine issues and cabin quality."
Performance - very good acceleration, handling Build Quality - Hasn't needed any repairs Appearance - beautiful Cost of Ownership - very low I would recommend it to anyone!
July 9, 2008I love the color of this car and that it looks so classy! It is a fun, beautiful car for all ages and is great in all types of weather. This car has lots of extra's and gets great gas mileage.
May 6, 2015This car looks modern, fun for a first car. It rides good, not an off road car. Good price for car and quality. Easy to maintain. Very fun to drive around in, or to take on long trips. It stands out from the rest, it looks nothing like your ordinary car.
August 31, 2009What owners say
Performance - very good acceleration, handling Build Quality - Hasn't needed any repairs Appearance - beautiful Cost of Ownership - very low I would recommend it to anyone!
July 9, 2008I love the color of this car and that it looks so classy! It is a fun, beautiful car for all ages and is great in all types of weather. This car has lots of extra's and gets great gas mileage.
May 6, 2015This car looks modern, fun for a first car. It rides good, not an off road car. Good price for car and quality. Easy to maintain. Very fun to drive around in, or to take on long trips. It stands out from the rest, it looks nothing like your ordinary car.
August 31, 20092 door New Beetle, Royal Blue, 2.5L, 6 Speed Automatic with tiptronic, 5 Cylinder in-line, Power Glass sunroof, Monsoon Mp3 System, Built in Subwoofers, 6 Disk changer, Heated leather seats, Anti-Intrusion Beams (designed to absorb and redirect energy upon side impact), Automatic door locks, Heated Washer Nozzles, Integrated Mirrors, Round Shape (gives added strength and rigidity for safety, Third Break light.
February 14, 2008dislike: the expensive maintenance; some of the parts in the engine are not necessary(brake booster pump). door handle brake due to poor engineering. headlights adjustment, good idea, poor execution like: the ratio of engine size to car size---->fast acceleration. I would expect more from German engineers
December 17, 2014I have a 2008. Very fun to drive. Responsive, smooth ride, reliable.
September 25, 2020Fun to drive, nice engine sound from the 2.5l 5 cyl engine.
December 6, 2007Great car with really no huge issues. The ride is great and handling is tight. It is small but what do you expect...we have had a teenager fall asleep in the back seat and have had packed the trunk full so works for her. No problems with the top. Had one issue with the safety light coming on after hitting a few bumps but got that fixed without any issues. Do have an issue as of now with the heater in the winter months but otherwise is great in the snow and hopefully will be getting that looked at soon. All in all, very happy.
December 4, 2007Excellent acceleration, handling is nice and tight. Only regular maintenance has been required. No annoying squeaks or rattles. Stored in winter, great condition very well cared for inside and out. Excellent gas mileage all scheduled maintenance has been performed. Very fun to drive, convertibles are the MOST fun, nows your chance to own one at a great price!!
November 5, 2010This is the first foreign made auto I've ever owned. Although I like driving it, parts are expensive and there isn't much you can do yourself.
March 19, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $25,170 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.5L 170 hp I5 | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,795 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.0L 150 hp I4 Diesel | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG 36 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,295 | Seating 4 |
Engine 2.5L 170 hp I5 | Cargo Capacity 12.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
