2005 Volkswagen New Beetle 1.9L TDI 5MT RWD (105 HP)

Vehicle Overview

After more than eight years since the introduction of the New Beetle in 1998, Volkswagen refreshed the model and unveiled it in September 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Ever since the introduction of the Volkswagen New Beetle, Volkswagen recorded consistent sales of the model, averaging more than 100,000 units per year. As a result, it didn’t want to change something that was working well. However, in January 2006, all cars sold in Europe had to comply with the Euro 5 emission standards, so the New Beetle had to adapt and fit into them. That led not only to some engine modifications but also to some visual upgrades. In addition, along with this facelift, the automaker solved most of the issues mentioned by customers.

The 2006 Volkswagen Beetle had a restyled front fascia featuring clear-lenses headlights. That change alone made the car look fresh and modern despite its retro design styling, which was already eight years old. In addition, the automaker installed a new bumper featuring an apron that housed a broad center grille flanked by narrow side scoops for the round fog lamps.

From its profile, the 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle boasted slightly redesigned polymer front fenders, featuring a sharper connecting line to the rest of the bodywork. The automaker also found a way to improve the car’s look by offering a choice of four 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels. In addition, hubcaps for the 16-inch steel wheels were available as well. At the back, the automaker added more changes. Besides the restyled bumper featuring a slim and broad grille, the automaker also introduced new taillights. These were still rounded, echoing the headlights’ look, and integrated the reversing lights that were previously mounted under the bumper.

Inside, the automaker refreshed the interior by adding a new steering wheel with aluminum trims on the spokes. Previously, those were black and matched the car’s instrument panel. For the 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, the car manufacturer also restyled the numbers inside the instrument panel to make them easier to read. The driver and their side passengers sat comfortably on bucket seats similar to those placed on the non-facelifted New Beetle, with little side bolstering. Surprisingly, the automaker still didn’t add a split-folding bench seat in the back, but at least the seatback was folding to expand trunk space.

Under the hood, the German automaker installed a wide choice of engines, either gasoline or turbodiesel, depending on the market. Most versions could be paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Those looking for more powerful versions could get the VR6 or the 1.8-liter turbocharged powerplants carried over from the Audi TT. In terms of safety, the 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle was available with ABS, ESP, ASR, and dual airbags.