Hard to believe the Volkswagen New Beetle has been on the road for a full decade, already. Most vehicles would go through two full generations in that period, but the New Beetle has built on the original’s reputation for going the distance. (The classic Beetle was produced from 1938 until 2003!) Since its introduction, over 1 million New Beetles have been produced worldwide, with more than 500,000 sold in the United States.
Originally unveiled as a design study car called “Concept 1” at the Detroit-based North American International Auto Show in 1994, the New Beetle made its worldwide debut in 1998. Since then, the hardtop spawned a cute convertible version. Together, both have offered a range of engines, including diesel, for both performance and fuel efficiency. Special editions have injected new life into the production run, including clever online marketing tie-ins for exclusive colors.
In 1996, the New Beetle received its most significant update, with revised bumper caps freshening the exterior appearance. Under the curved hood, a five-cylinder engine was fitted, giving the New Beetle a smooth, refined alternative to the peaky, yet highly entertaining turbocharged four-cylinder.
Today, the New Beetle has a decade’s worth of refinements, with abundant safety equipment, welcomed conveniences (such as iPod connectivity), and a wild palette of exterior colors.
It has earned its place as an automotive icon, with countless media appearances including most notably “Herbie Fully Loaded.” As proof, the New Beetle's silhouette is now considered the most easily recognized profile in automotive history, according to J. D. Power and Associates.
With interesting engines in the pipeline from Volkswagen, we look forward to seeing the New Beetle continue to evolve.
Happy birthday little Bug!
Research Volkswagen in the buyer’s guide, complete with pricing, specifications, and photo galleries. Read our 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible review.
