i just sat in the "New Beetle" yesterday at Lehigh Valley \X/ in allentown,
pa.
they had just got it in yesterday afternoon. it's a red one. i had badmouthed
this car previously, but it's actually kinda neat. it is made well, and front
seats are very comfortable (i'm about 6') and there is plenty of head room.
this was the 2.0 inline 4 (transversely mounted) with a 5 speed trans. They
are made in Mexico, at VW's Puebla plant. the fenders/ bumpers are the ABS
plastic. it has slightly less trunk room than a golf, but the back seat folds
down flat for more room. the wheels are 16 inch alloy. it has a traditional
bud vase on the dash, and 3 cupholders in the console.  there is a dig clock
overhead. the dash is HUGE! .
i couldnt find any real defects as far as fit and finish. it was made pretty
well.

maybe in a few years i'll buy a used one..  ;<)

chris