Sleeker Volkswagen Beetle unveiled
20.04.2011 - Andy Goodwin
(4)
A revitalised Volkswagen Beetle will go on sale in the UK in early 2012, featuring a new design and advanced engines.
It's much longer (15cm), wider (8cm) and lower (minus 1cm) than before, giving it a sleeker and more aggressive stance. There are four seats and the boot has grown substantially from just 209 litres to 310.
Three petrol engines and one diesel will be available in Beetle, Design and Sport trim levels. The 1.2-litre, 1.4-litre and 2-litre turbo petrol TSI engines produce 104, 158 and 198bhp respectively, while the 1.6-litre diesel develops 104bhp.
The diesel is most economical, fitted with BlueMotion technology including stop and start, it averages 65.7mpg and emits a tax-friendly 112g/km of CO2.
Inside there's a colour-coded glovebox and accent panels harking back to the classic Beetle, while keyless unlocking, sat-nav, a panoramic sunroof, bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights weren't even a pipe dream in 1938, when the original Beetle was conceived.
The dashboard vase made famous by the 1998 to 2011 Beetle has not been carried over to the new car.
Safety technology will include electronic stability programme (ESP) and six airbags, while the range-topping 2-litre petrol gets an XDS electronic differential to improve traction out of tight bends.
The Volkswagen Beetle is currently making its world debut at the Shanghai motor show and is expected to be priced similarly to the outgoing Beetle, which was available from around £13,000 to £18,000.
