2005 Volkswagen Beetle GL TDI Hatchback Review: Summary & Specs

2005 Volkswagen Beetle GL TDI Hatchback Review

More standard features plus a new diesel engine.
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2005 Beetle GL TDI Hatchback Review Summary & Specifications
The Volkswagen Beetle feels tight and responsive. Its ride is smooth and sporty. Handling and braking are excellent. The standard 2.0-liter engine is smooth and quiet, fine for most people, but driving enthusiasts will find its acceleration performance lacking. The GLS 1.8 T is fun to drive. Its mild manners make for a pleasant ride around town, while its acceleration performance gives it sports appeal.

New Car Test Drive editor Mitch McCullough is based in Southern California.

2005 Volkswagen Beetle GL TDI Hatchback Specs
Vehicle CategoryCompact Cars
EditorMitch McCullough
Model LineupVolkswagen Beetle GL ($16,570); GLS ($18,770); GLS 1.8T ($20,940); GLS TDI-PD ($20,010); GL convertible ($21,290); GLS convertible ($18,770); GLS 1.8T convertible ($20,940)
Engines (standard)2.0-liter sohc 8-valve inline-4
Transmissions (standard)5-speed manual
Engines (optional)115-hp 2.0-liter sohc 8-valve inline-4; 150-hp 1.8-liter dohc 20-valve turbocharged inline-4; 180-hp 1.8-liter dohc 20-valve turbocharged inline-4; 100-hp 1.9-liter sohc 8-valve turbocharged diesel inline-4
Transmissions (optional)5-speed manual; 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic
Safety Equipment (standard)dual front airbags with dual-stage activation; dual side-impact airbags with head/thorax protection; active head restraints; safety-belt tensioning and load-limiting; rear-seat LATCH system tether anchor points for child safety seat; ABS
Safety Equipment (optional)electronic stability control; traction control
Basic Warranty4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled InPuebla, Mexico
Manufacturer Phone1-800-DRIVE-VW
Manufacturer URLwww.vw.com
Base Price MSRP16570


2005 Volkswagen Beetle GL TDI Hatchback Specs as Tested
Model Tested MSRPVolkswagen Beetle Convertible GLS ($23,040)
Standard Equipmentair conditioning, Monsoon premium AM/FM/cassette stereo with ten speakers, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks with keyless remote control, cruise control, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering column, anti-theft alarm system, rear window defroster, pollen/odor filter, bud vase, plastic daisy, front center armrest; power top
Destination Charge575
Options as Tested (MSRP)Leather Package ($900) includes partial leather seating surfaces, leather steering wheel, shift knob and grip, heated front seats and heated washer nozzles; wind blocker ($250); ESP Electronic Stability Program ($280)
Gas Guzzler Tax
Layoutfront-wheel drive
Price as Tested25045
Horse Power115 @ 5400
Torque125 @ 3200
Fuel Economy24/30
Wheelbase98.8
Length/Width/Height161.1/67.9/59.1
Track Front/Rear
Turning Radius35.8
Seating Capacity4
Front Head/Hip/Leg room40.7/NA/39.4
Middle Head/Hip/Leg room
Rear Head/Hip/Leg room37.2/NA/31.5
Trunk Volume5
Payload
Towing Capacity
Front Suspensionindependent, MacPherson struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear Suspensionsemi-independent, torsion-beam axle, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Ground Clearance4.7
Curb Weight3082
Stock Tires205/55HR16
Brakes Front/Reardisc/disc with ABS
Fuel Capacity14.5 14.5
2005 Volkswagen Beetle
  
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