2003 Volkswagen Beetle GLX convertible review from North America
"Fun, performance and great handling"
General comments?
Although I consider my previous car to be an awesome machine ('97 Saab 900SE turbo convertible), I have to say that the New Beetle 1.8T Convertible is also an awesome car in it's own right.
Performance wise, it is flawless. The engine is quick and responsive, the turbocompressor is easily modulable, unlike the previous Saab's turbo which was lagging and producing quite a lot of torque steer, which is not the case on this car.
So far, all systems have been working fine, which is in great contrast with a 2001 Cabrio GLX that my wife used to have and that we elected not to keep for fear of eventual costly after-warranty repairs (2.0 liter engine which consumed 1ltr of oil between changes although brand new!!!)
Overall, a very enjoyable car, the best open top feel on the market, as the windshield is so forward and doesn't obstruct your overhead view, great fuel economy for the performance and nimble handling, not to mention the great looks, especially with the 17' wheels and 225-45R17 tires...
Recommended reviews
| Great at first, sadly a money pit in the end |
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| The New Beetle has a lot of bugs! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 34 miles |
| Most recent distance | 12850 miles |
| Previous car | SAAB 900 |
| Date of Entry | 15th July, 2004 |