The 2009 Volkswagen New Beetle will roll out as the latest version of this famed automobile. Calling it "new" doesn't really fit anymore since the car has been back in production since 1998, and hasn't had any major redesigns since then. The Beetle is based on the VW golf platform, and comes in either a coupe or convertible. With so many newer vehicles crowding the small car market, the one major selling point this one has over its competition is the distinctive look.

Most people who buy the Volkswagen Beetle are usually those who value form over function. It continues to carry the classic style and appearance of its early versions. The convertible comes equipped with a power folding soft top, and the coupe has a power sunroof as an option. Both trims come standard with 16" alloy wheels, but you can upgrade to 17" as factory options. On the inside, the 2009 Beetle has full power accessories, and many of the other features so common to new vehicles today, such as heated seats and premium sound system. This is, however, the area where the Beetle falls short of its competition. As you can imagine, there is limited space inside for anything other than your passengers. Long trips in this car will not be very comfortable for back seat passengers because of the shape of the roof.

Both trims offer the same engine, which is a 2.5 liter inline 5-cylinder that produces 150 horsepower. As far as the transmission goes, the coupe is available in either a five speed manual or six-speed automatic, while the convertible only offers the automatic. You can expect to get 20/28 miles per gallon with the New Beetle, and this will be slightly better with the automatic.

The 2009 Beetle contains most of the standard safety features found in today's new vehicles, including airbags and stability control system. There is also a rollover protection system standard on the convertible. The 2.5 liter engine packs enough power to make this car relatively fun to drive. Unfortunately, most people are looking for more in a vehicle than just a fun drive. Most need some sort of practicality as well. This is where the 2009 Volkswagen New Beetle falls short for some people, especially at a starting price of around $18,000. If you need at least some utility capabilities, you may want to explore some of the cars that the Beetle competes with, such as the Honda Civic, or Saturn Astra.