Design changes
The Volkswagen Beetle is a genuine motoring icon. It’s one of a handful of cars that, in the 20th Century, brought motoring to the masses as more than 20 million examples of the original Beetle were sold around the world.
When it was reborn in 1998 as the New Beetle, a further million sales brought the Beetle’s distinctive character to a new generation.
In 2011 the ‘New’ tag was dropped and the Beetle was comprehensively redesigned. Its new shape was lower and wider, with a longer bonnet, and the Beetle’s more sporting and masculine stance boosted its appeal all over again.
Now, this latest iteration of perhaps the best loved Volkswagen of all time is being refreshed, with changes that include a more sculptured body and a fresh interior design.
The styling enhancements and new options increase the appeal and value that is inherent in the Beetle range, which is available in coupe and cabriolet forms and, with the new Beetle Dune, as a crossover.
The styling changes comprise sharpened lines for the front bumpers, while larger openings around the indicator and fog light surrounds give extra depth to the car’s appearance.
Meanwhile, the new Beetle R-line trim has a more sporty bumper design unique to that model. It features extra air intake openings along the upper edge of the bumper.
On the inside, the Volkswagen Beetle’s distinctive cabin has brighter instrument panel lighting and new dials and dash styling for the Design and R-line models. New upholstery materials bring further styling options.
In the new range the Beetle R-line replaces the previous Sport trim level. The R-line will be available with Volkswagen’s powerful 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS diesel engine and a choice of either six-speed manual or six-speed DSG transmission.
The new Beetle R-line also boasts sports suspension, 18-inch ‘Twister’ alloy wheels, and the unique new R-line bumper. It is also available with a new alloy wheel design, the 18-inch ‘Ashmie Adamantium,’ at no extra cost.
Whichever wheels are chosen, the sporty finish of the Beetle R-line is enhanced further with a body-coloured rear diffuser and chromed twin exhausts.
And the R-line’s exterior styling is developed with gloss black door mirrors and door protectors.