The already iconic modern Beetle was unveiled to the public for the first time in 1998.
It took Volkswagen 4 years to bring the much expected convertible which proved to be a great success.

Based on the Volkswagen Golf, the Beetle had a highly rigid chassis, offering a smooth ride with low NVH levels.

The stylish car combined German engineering and performance with amazing finishes, thus the Beetle was at least an interesting choice.

For 2003, Volkswagen offered the convertible Beetle with a choice of 3 engines: a 2.0-liter, a 1.9-liter and a turbocharged 1.8-liter. Customer could choose a manual or an automatic transmission for an additional fee.

Even with the base GL trim level, the Beetle was well equipped and offered air-conditioning, central locking with keyless remote, a 6-speaker audio system, an anti-theft system, four-wheel disc brakes, ABS, halogen projector headlamps, heated side mirrors, cruise control and power windows.

Stepping up to the GLS trim levels, the Beetle featured 16-inch alloys, a power sunroof, leatherette upholstery and fog lamps.

The top-of-the-range, the GLX added a speed-activated rear spoiler, a premium 8-speaker audio system, a 3-spoke steering wheel, heated windshield washed nozzles, rain-sensing wipers and a self-dimming rearview mirrors.

Safety wise, the standard equipment included driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags, a safety-belt tensioning system, ABS, optional ESP, a collapsible steering column and others.