2001 Volkswagen Beetle

The undeniable mascot of the VW range, the car popularly known as the New Beetle isn't that new anymore, but still a weird head-turning cruiser. Launched in 1999, it hass received a few facelifts over the years, but is still essentially the same. Passengers must make some concessions for retro style. Interior ergonomics are not as good as that in a traditional car, and there isn't a lot of trunk space. But the Beetle does come in an assortment of bright colours, including sunflowery yellow and limey green. Its exterior and interior design details are fun and creative, but very much on the feminine side. On the road, the Beetle is smooth and handles fairly okay. The convertible adds to the fun with its ability to drop the top. But the New Beetle hardly offers blistering performance, with a choice of 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, with either a manual or an automatic. All Beetles are well equipped, with an AM/FM/cassette stereo, central locking with keyless remote,... Read More