Volkswagen’s New Beetle stable has added the Turbo S, a 1.8-liter 5V turbocharged engine producing 180 horsepower. Is it fast off a dead stop? Yes, and there’s virtually no torque steer – that annoying steering wheel pull that can occur with rapid acceleration. The Turbo S deploys a rear spoiler (located at the top portion of the rear window) at 45 mph, but the problem with this feature – which also helps with rear-end stability at very high speeds – is the clunking noise it generates whenever speed-activation occurs. Turbo S offers an optional six-speed overdrive manual transmission. Inside the Turbo S, silver-hue alloys accent the gearshift knob, three steering wheel spokes, interior door handle, brake pull handle, top portion of the dashboard vase, and the floor pedals. Special Turbo S cues include dual chrome exhausts and a unique front spoiler and rear bumper design. New Beetle Turbo S is the first passenger car from VW to feature the Electric Stabilization Program, which uses engine power, braking and transmission to help balance the "bug" in radical road maneuvers. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels and all season tires, cruise control, Monsoon sound system, rear reading lights, heated side mirrors, air conditioning, and power tilt/slide sunroof. Mile per gallon fuel estimates are 23 city/30 highway. MSRP is $23,400.