We prefer the manual gearbox, which shifts smoothly and adds enjoyment to driving the Beetle. However, the six-speed automatic with Porsche's Tiptronic system offers performance that's nearly as quick as a manual gearbox (0 to 60 mph in 11.8 seconds). It also allows semi-manual shifting.

Volkswagen builds some of the best small diesel engines in the world. The new 1.9 TDI-PD is rated at only 100 horsepower, but its 177 pound-feet of torque compares favorably with the 173 pound-feet of the defunct hot-rod Turbo S. Plus it can be ordered with the terrific DSG gearbox with Tiptronic, which makes the most out of the diesel engine's power. The new diesel is rated 46 mpg on the highway, compared to 44 for last year's 90-horsepower diesel, and 31 for the 2.0-liter gas engine. In our past experiences with VW diesels they have run brilliantly, on long trips and in everyday driving. They have none of the clatter of an old Mercedes-Benz diesel, but just a slightly rough texture that some people like because they say it reminds them a bit of the original Bug.

Driving enthusiasts will prefer the 1.8 T turbocharged gasoline engine. It lacks response at the bottom of the rpm range, but provides good acceleration performance once the revs are up. Step on the gas and the car begins to build momentum, then there's a whoosh of power. The GLS 1.8 T can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.2 seconds. We strongly recommend the manual gearbox with this engine. We have not been happy when pairing the 1.8 T with an automatic because the turbo seems to confuse the transmission causing a distinct lack of response in certain situations; this often happens when you most need a squirt of power, such as when jumping out of a slow, bumper-to-bumper lane into a fast lane.

Summary

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.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Volkswagen 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: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: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 warranty:4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled in:Puebla, Mexico