Welcome to the org
A chip for sure will add more fun/sport for sure. Then you have your choices of lowering springs/struts, turbo back exhausts, even turbo upgrades. ECS Tuning is a good place to check out for what's available too.
Other than engine/tuning mods, I would suggest you all getting involved in the new beetle experience- Get togethers (GTG's)- it's a mod that's just as important as the mechanical mods themselves. You'd be very surprised on how a new beetle event can ramp up the thrill factor of beetle ownership. This past May, over 43 new beetles spent a
weekend in bryson City, NC to ride the Tail of the Dragon; this was the 2nd year of an annual event and plans are in full swing for next year.
Click here for the ToD thread.
Click here to view this years photo highlights- it'll kick you beetle passion up a notch.
I know ToD is a ways off, but fret not, I have good news!!! There's a GtG coming up in October, right in your neighborhood-
the Dreher Island State Park day long GTG. Click here for the thread
You and the misses will get a ton of insipration on how to beef up your beetle. Plus the experience of hanging with the beetle peeps is indescribable.
Big congrats to your wife for her triumph! Hope to meet you guys down the road soon