The 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle

In the New Beetle Fox, the year 2000 will offer more security with the addition of Volkswagen's Immobilizer security system. The Immobilizer is a theft-deterrent device that adds a new transparent layer of protection to Volkswagen's standard anti-theft alarm system. Every time the car is started, the Immobilizer control unit checks for the special key. Without the coded key, the car cannot be started.

Also new for 1.8 T versions is the addition of ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) to the already impressive traction control system EDL (Electronic Differential Lock). EDL is enabled at speeds of up to 24 miles per hour. It detects wheel slippage and applies braking force to that particular wheel. Working in conjunction with EDL, the ASR system uses sophisticated electronics to control throttle response to maximize traction and minimize slipping. With this new feature, which can be deactivated at the push of a button. Volkswagen has added to the sense of surefootedness that comes with the ownership of a New Bettle 1.8 T.

The New Beetle uses front-wheel-drive and is equipped with a long list of standard items, including CFC-free air conditioning, four-wheel disc ABS brakes; a pollen and odor filter; a six-speaker stereo with CD-control capability; beverage holders; an anti-theft alarm system; clear lens halogen projector headlamps; and a central locking system with remote. New in 2000, the New Beetle now offers a string attachment on the fuel cap. Sliding covers have been added for the standard lighted vanity mirrors (running change).

The HLS trim level adds power one-touch windows, cruise control, fog lamps, and a folding center armrest. Options on the New Beetle in GLS trim include 16-inch alloy wheels; leather seating and heatable front seats; a three-spoke leather covered steering wheel; and heated windshield washer nozzles. Leatherette is a no-cost option.

The higher output 1.8 T engine is available in a GLS or GLX trim level. The top-of-the line New Beetle GLX (1.8 T only) comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, a speed-activated rear spoiler (also on GLS 1.8 Ts), leather seating with heatable front seats, and a power glass sunroof.

Performance in the New Beetle comes by way of three advanced powertrain options: a 115 horsepower, 2.0 liter four-cylinder overhead cam gasoline engine, a high tech Turbo Direct Injection (TDI) diesel and a sporty 150-horsepower 1.8 T.

The New Beetle 1.8 T is a technically advanced small car, employing Volkswagen's revolutionary five-valve per cylinder engine technology. Providing a substantial, six-cylinder-like power delivery and performance, the New Beetle's 1.8 T is remarkably efficient, using a turbocharger and an intercooler for cool, high-density intake air --a basic ingredient of power. Of course, its five-valves per cylinder provide for excellent top-end breathing, and the double overhead camshaft provide for optimal valve control. All of this is built into a compact and efficient long-stroke 1.8 liter four-cylinder package. The result: 150 horsepower at 5,800 revolutions per minute and 162 ft. lbs. of torque all the way from 2,200 to 4,200 rpm -- an extraordinarily flat torque curve that provides plenty of pulling power from the low end through the top.

As an engine option, the New Beetle's TDI engine offers remarkable performance and unmatched economy. It utilizes a major advance in diesel technology where fuel is injected and ignited directly in the engine's cylinder head. This is accomplished by the use of an advanced electronic diesel control. In simple terms, it can be said the TDI engine is a "drive by wire" with no mechanical controls from fuel pedal to fuel injection.

The result is a 90 horsepower diesel engine that provides a wealth of low-end torque (155 ft. lbs. at 1,900 rpm), exceptional fuel figures and exhaust emissions that meet the stringent standards in the U. S. and Europe. In fact, the super efficient 1.9 liter TDI emits 20 percent less carbon dioxide than a comparable gasoline engine. Even at altitude the TDI performs remarkably well.

Mated to these powerplants is a standard five-speed manual with hydraulic clutch or an optional four-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission.

As a priority in its development, the New Beetle's advanced occupant safety system includes energy absorbing crush zones, pretensioning front safety belts, front and rear headrests, daytime running lights, dual airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags.

Based on Volkswagen's new Golf chassis -- Europe's number-one selling car--the New Beetle is built to the highest standards. This is clearly expressed in its solid,one-piece appearance, which results from narrow panel gap tolerances in production. And, by using state-of-the-art production techniques like laser welding, Volkswagen has given the New Beetle unmatched torsional and body rigidity.

Its fully galvanized body allows for a 12-year warranty against corrosion perforation.

Like all of today's Volkswagens, the New Beetle expresses the German engineering passion of designing and building cars with exceptional road-holding qualities.

It begins with an extra rigid body structure and four-wheel independent suspension system, both of which help give the New Beetle a rock-solid feel. The front suspension uses a McPherson strut design with control arms, stabilizer bar and coil spring struts. The rear suspension employs a "V" profile independent torsion beam axle with integral sway bar and trailing arms. The torsion beam axle is mounted to the vehicle with Volkswagen's unique track-correcting bushings -- a feature designed to minimize unwanted steering effects. Active safety in the New Beetle comes from its precise handling, the security of front-wheel-drive, advanced braking, and other accident avoidance aids like daytime running lights.

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