2003 Volkswagen New Beetle in Knoxville, TN - $0

Entering its fourth model year, the New Beetle remains the hallmark for inspired small car designs. Originally introduced to the market in 1998, the New Beetle instantly rekindled the magic of its legendary namesake. It also established itself as a totally modern creation, both functional and fun to drive with a bounty of creature comforts and the latest advancements in small car safety.

Based on the successful Golf chassis, the New Beetle is built by Volkswagen at its Puebla, Mexico, manufacturing complex. This marketing icon on wheels is available in the following models: GL, GLS, GLS TDI, GLS 1.8T, and GLX. Engine choices include a normally aspirated 2.0L SOHC four-cylinder, 1.9L SOHC turbocharged direct-injection diesel four-cylinder and a 1.8L DOHC turbocharged gasoline motor. Gearbox choices include a short throw five-speed manual or the $875 optional four-speed automatic with adaptive shift program.

Originally conceived as a futuristic show car called Concept 1, it was first unveiled at the 1994 Detroit Auto Show. Significantly larger than the original, the Beetle has an overall length of 161.1 inches, a wheelbase of 98.9 inches and width of 67.9 inches. State-of-the-art production techniques like laser welding contribute to the coupe's unmatched torsional and body rigidity. The fender and bumpers of the New Beetle are made with a special dent resistant plastic that is color keyed along with the mirror housings and door handles.

On the road, the GLX 1.8L turbo/four-speed automatic delivers a responsive performance. The chassis holds the road like glue while running seriously fast at speed. An independent four-wheel suspension with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers at each corner is combined with front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam axle.

Front (23 mm) and rear (18 mm) stabilizer bars work with meaty Goodyear Eagle RS-A P205/55R16 tires keep this bug firmly attached to Planet Earth.

Inside the cabin, displays and controls are easy to read and use. The speedometer is backlit at night in an ice cold blue light. The radio was a shining example of excellent execution! Another unique feature is the Easy Entry system which allows front seats to move forward, delivering best in class access to the back seating area.

The rear seat back also folds up and out of the way to yield big time cargo space in the back of the coupe.

Ratings & specifications

Engine performance numbers are as follow: 2.0L -- 115 hp at 5,200 rpm and 122 lb/ft of torque at 2,600 rpm; 1.9L TDI turbo diesel -- 90 hp at 3,750 rpm and 155 lb/ft of torque at 1,900 rpm; 1.8L turbo -- 150 hp at 5,800 rpm and 162 lb/ft of torque at 2,200-4,200 rpm.

EPA fuel economy numbers for both the 2.0L and 1.8L turbo range from 24 city/31 highway for the five-speed manual and 22 city/28 highway for the automatic. Fuel economy numbers for the 1.9L turbo diesel are 42 city/49 highway for the manual and 34 city/45 highway for the automatic. The 2.0L uses regular unleaded gasoline, while the 1.8L turbo requires the use of premium unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are generally easy to reach and clearly marked.

Standard safety/security features for the New Beetle include dual front airbags, seat mounted driver and front passenger side-impact airbags, anti-intrusion side door beams, daytime running lights, anti-theft vehicle alarm system, immobilizer theft deterrent system, remote keyless entry, power automatic door locks and four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock.

GLS adds front fog lamps. GLS TDI adds EBC (Engine Braking Control). GLS 1.8T adds ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) and EDL (Electronic Differential Lock). GLX adds rain sensor and speed sensitive automatic wiper speed control.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $15,900 for the GL to $22,050 for the GLX automatic. Destination charge adds $550. Dealers report good supplies and there are no rebates.

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