Volkswagen Beetle 2000-2011 used car review

The Volkswagen Beetle is a cute, retro-styled hatchback based on the legendary Golf.

Richard Edwards
Richard Edwards
Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group
Exterior , 3.5 out of 5 Drive , 3 out of 5 Safety , 4 out of 5 Value , 3 out of 5 Interior , 2.5 out of 5

Overall score , 3.2 out of 5

The good
  • Eye-catching retro style
  • Very comfortable front seats with lots of adjustment for the driver
  • Handles and rides well
The not-so-good
  • Rear seat is only for two, with reduced legroom
  • The 1.6-litre version feels unrefined
  • Boot space is limited

Inside and out

On the road

Safety

Reliability

Cost of ownership

Buyers’ guide

Variants

Japanese versions

Timeline

Details

Review vehicle

2008 Volkswagen "New" Beetle EZ

Price

$4,000 to $14,000 for models which have travelled 70,000 to 120,000km

Engine

1.6-litre four-cylinder, 75kW and 148NM

Transmission

Four-speed automatic, front-wheel drive

Safety rating

Four-star ANCAP (NZ new version)

Servicing

15,000km or twelve months

Spare wheel

Space saver

Fuel economy

9.4-litres per 100km (claimed)

Fuel type

Premium

Length

4129mm

Width

1721mm

Height

1498mm

Towing capacity

1000kg (braked)

Turning circle

10.9m

Image gallery

Richard Edwards Richard Edwards
Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group
Start a listing icon
Start a listing
Watchlist icon
Watchlist
Favourites icon
Favourites
Sign up icon
My Trade Me
© 2026 Trade Me Limited