Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback 1999 - Present

The cynic will be inclined to approach the new the new Beetle as an unnecessary imitation of the 60's design classic. People around the world have loved the Beetle pretty much since it's release until today, and classic Beetles are still as cool today as they were thirty years ago. The new Beetle was launched to satisfy a yearning to recapture the ability to own a band new Beetle.

Designed in the thirties by Ferdinand Porsche as the ‘Peoples car', designed to carry two adults and three children at speeds over 60 mph the Beetle had to be reliable and easy to produce. Modern Beetle fans have always accepted the fact that as a trade-off for the characterful vehicle they drive, they would have to put up with somewhat outdated technology (more than likely a 20 -30 year old car). The same sacrifice is being asked of the owner of the modern Beetle, not in the ancient technology, but still sub standard in comparison to what's on offer.

The new Beetle is based on the excellent VW Golf. This is great news in terms of the engine and handling, but it's more expensive than the Golf and the shape restricts both boot access and interior space. At least the inconvenience of the original models seemed to have a point.

The new Beetle certainly harks back to the classic model in terms of it's shape. Based on the Mk 4 Golf you'd expect a decent level of quality and finish and this is sadly lacking. Often there is too much cheap and hard plastic and fittings that simply don't, well, fit. It's all most unlike VW and smacks of a product that was put out because there was a market for it that would bring in some easy money and ask few questions.

On the road the Beetle copes well with everyday driving and although it's not going to set the road on fire it performs adequately. Starting with the 1.4L which is best suited to in town driving as it's pretty sluggish. The 1.6 is better but still won't do much more than move the froth on the top of your latte. The 1.8T is the best option if you're going to cover any great number of miles. It has an 8.4 second 0 - 60 and top speed of 126 mph. there is a 2.3 V5, which is 5 mph faster top end but no quicker accelerating. For economy the 1.9 TDi model is the only option with 52 mpg, all the rest are in the low thirties.

The modern Beetle promised a classic car styling with modernity's comfort and performance. It's given something for the people who wanted a Beetle without the hassle of driving an old car, but with a little research and thought, they could have so much more. I'll be surprised if anyone that test drive the new Mini Cooper S would have bought one.

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