Volkswagen New Beetle Turbo S, Engine & Performance

No, this isn't an airbag simulation. The Turbo S' cabin is just as impractical and fun-loving as a regular New Beetle, just with more turbo-spinning hot air under the hood.

Volkswagen New Beetle Turbo S
The icon of Volkswagen's recent product renaissance has been losing some of its sales buzz of late. Admittedly, the New Beetle isn't for everyone--kind of the point, anyway--but in order to keep the Beetle as a viable showroom draw, Volkswagen's now rolling out some interesting entomological variations. The Turbo S gets handling enhancements and applies a 180-hp upgrade to the 1.8L five-valve/cylinder DOHC I-4 engine. Soon, a ragtop Beetle will also make its debut.

The New Beetle is a lovable, cherubic interpretation of a '30s People's Car veneered over rather capable Golf/Jetta mechanicals. Unfortunately, the packaging shenanigans employed to stretch a rear-engine pontoon-fender-derived shape over a modern, front-drive hatchback platform have certain ergonomic consequences--namely compromised rear-seat headroom and an oddly shaped cargo area. None of which matters much to single-occupant drivers who are, uh, not in a family way.

The Turbo S treatment leaves those practical considerations in the dust and takes the New Beetle far beyond the take-me-home cute stage. VW has even seen fit to remove the daisy from the dash-mounted bud vase, which would make a great repository for some nails (to slam the door shut on unsuspecting Hondas), considering the snarky attitude of the Turbo S. Snarky? The Turbo S gets the fast 'n' funky look, courtesy of an oversize (and curb-catching) front spoiler, foglamps, lower-restriction dual exhaust, speed-activated roof-mounted rear spoiler (up at 45 mph, down again at 10 mph, with tremendous cacophony), and meaty 45-series Michelin Pilots on 17-in. Delta X alloy wheels. In Reflex Silver Metallic paint, the Turbo S looks like family to a Porsche 911. Inside are leather-trimmed seats, steering wheel, shifter and handbrake, plus stainless-steel perforated pedals. The glovebox handle, shift knob, door locks, and vase get brushed alloy trim as well. Eight-speaker Monsoon audio covers the beat.