THE 1999 NEW BEETLE-THE WORLD'S MOST
TALKED ABOUT CAR GETS EVEN BETTER

AUBURN FHLLS, Mich.-The New Beetle continues to excite the automotive world in 1999 with an abundance of updates, as well as the addition of a high-powered engine option later in the model year.

Starting in the first half of 1999, Volkswagen will offer the New Beetle with its award-winning 1.8 liter, 20-valve, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that also powers the Passat GLS. The 1.8 T produces 150 horsepower and 155 ft. lbs. of torque. When it arrives, this New Beetle will come in a GLS or GLX trim level and offer six-spoke alloy wheels, a speed-activated rear spoiler, leather seating, and much more.

New-for-1999 features on all New Beetles include standard ABS four-wheel disc brakes (vented front) and special "ring" type head rests. Other 1999 additions include a handy integrated eyeglass holder in the front headliner, rear-seat reading lights, door entry lights, a new location for the clock (with ambient temperature readings) below the rearview mirror, and an easier-to-use joystick style operation for the remote mirrors.

When it arrived in 1998, the New Beetle rekindled the magic of its legendary namesake and instantly became a welcome ray of sunshine in an all-too-serious car market. It also established itself as a totally modem creation, and a very functional one at that, with plenty of creature comforts and the latest advancements in small-car safety.

Sharing no parts with its famous predecessor, the New Beetle is powered by a front-mounted 115 horsepower four-cylinder engine, or as an option, a highly advanced Turbo Direct Injection diesel that delivers an EPA rating of 49 miles per gallon on the highway and a driving range of nearly 700 miles.

The New Beetle uses front-wheel-drive and is equipped with a long list of standard items, including CFC-free air conditioning, a pollen and odor filter, a sixspeaker stereo with CD-control capability, beverage holders, an anti-theft alarm system, clear lens halogen headlamps, four-wheel disc brakes, and a central locking system with remote. As mentioned, ABS brakes are now standard for 1999.

A new GLS 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 with heatable front seats, a three-spoke leather covered steering wheel, and heated windshield washers. 

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 or rust perforation.

True to the original concept it's based on, the New Beetle's charm begins with its eye-catching but brilliantly simple and honest styling. Its silhouette is instantly recognizable; its overall shape thoroughly modern-a harmonious convergence of smooth lines and pleasing -geometric arches. The result is an unconventional visual statement of optimism, fun, and individuality.