The 2009 Volkswagen New Beetle is a family coupe with 4 or 2 doors, depending on your pick of trim. The S and S PZEV versions both run on the same engine and body frame, but the convertible lacks a manual transmission option.

Unfortunately the New Beetle did not have the re-design that many hoped for 2009. Of course, the iconic shell was no small design challenge when it was conceived, but some were hoping for a moderate re-design to keep the brand trendy. Still, it looks as good as ever, but don’t expect to be turning nearly so many heads as the model did when it was first released.

Both New Beetles run on a 150-horsepower 2.5L inline 5 cylinder engine. In the coupes, it is complimented with either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic.

Safety features include: thorax side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and an electronic stabilization program. Of particular note is a clever system to protect convertible drivers by deploying two spring-loaded posts behind the rear-seat headrests to help protect passengers in a rollover.

In all, it’s a welcome return for the 2009 Volkswagen New Beetle. While some were hoping for more radical changes, they simply aren’t necessary. The New Beetle remains one of the most reliable and noticeable cars on the road.