2007 Volkswagen New Beetle Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: 2007 New Beetle Convertible, 2.5L 5 Cylinder. by Roccaas

Powertrain performance

Sprightly 2.5L 5 cylinder engine. With a manual transmission, this car is very driver friendly.

Exterior styling

Materials & workmanship

Plastic parts abound, and are not suited for long term usage. Door handles "peel" like sunburn skin, vinyl and rubber are prone to hold dirt/sweat/spilled drinks/etc. Vinyl on door cards pulls away from underlying armrests (can be reglued). Rear window detaches from convertible top (duck tape galore), so you must replace the whole top. Concerns about electronics (top mechanism and controls especially) and engine electrics. Rattles alot, (especially at the doors) for a car designed as a convertible from the ground up.

Fuel economy

NOT an economy car. Fun to drive, but not for the tight pocketbook.

Ride smoothness

NOT! Choppy and thumpy, especially on highway expansion joints. Buy good tires, it will ameliorate some of the drumming.

Fun, cute, probably better made than it should be, but it shows its design compromises with squeeking, road noise, and acres of cheap plastic. Take care of the top (waterproof dressing and cleaning) and budget $1200 to replace the top when the back window comes unstuck. Great weekend car, getaway car.