Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition, 2013

 

• Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition, 2013

The VW Beetle is the first car in Europe that can be ordered with a sound system from guitar and amp makers Fender. In 2011, Volkswagen showcased a concept car at the IAA in Frankfurt that was designed to pay homage to the legendary American company. That was the exclusive Beetle Fender. With its powerful looks and no less powerful sound system (400 watts), the concept car thrilled visitors to the show so much that Volkswagen decided to make it into a production car. It is now made its world premiere at the 2012 AMI in Leipzig.

Black and chrome as an exclusive alliance
The Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition is based on the already higher 'Design' level specification. The new Beetle model can be ordered in two shades of black: 'Black Uni' or 'Deep Black Pearl Effect'. Black has been chosen so that the VW Beetle Fender Edition's numerous chrome details are shown off to best effect. These include 18-inch 'Disc' alloy wheels as standard, the wing mirrors, the strip below the side windows, the inserts in the side sills, the two Fender signs on the left and right front wings, the 'Beetle' wording on the boot and, of course, the VW badge. The exterior standard specification also includes bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights.

Interior with dash pad in electric guitar style
The car's interior also has a very refined appearance. One very striking feature is the dash pad. Complete with chrome-plated Fender logo, it is finished in 'Sunburst' style, the two-tone wood design of many Fender guitars. The instrument panel thus creates a visual link to the world of rock music. In keeping with this, Volkswagen ships each Beetle with three exclusive Fender guitar picks.

Further standard features of the black-trimmed interior include redesigned sports seats with specially created central sections in fabric and sides and headrests in a black leather look, contrast stitching on the leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake lever, colour trimmed floor mats, cruise control, air conditioning and, of course, the Fender sound system complete with USB interface (media in). The Fender system is controlled as standard via the panel for the RCD 510 audio system (featuring touchscreen, integrated CD changer for six CDs, double tuner and SD card slot).

Fender sound system inclusive of ambient lighting
Automatically included with the sound system is adjustable interior ambient lighting in three colours (white, red and blue). As well as indirect lighting strips below the front side windows, this includes an illuminated ring around each of the speakers in the doors. The sound system includes two high-end tweeters installed in each mirror triangle and rear side panel, while in the front doors are the woofers with double voice coils. Assigned to these are woofers in the rear side panels, each with a single voice coil. Additionally integrated into the system is a subwoofer with double voice coil located in an enclosed bass box in the Beetle's boot. At the centre of the sound system is a 10-channel amplifier with class A/B power amps and an output capacity of 400 watts.

VW Beetle Fender Edition for Europe, Asia, Australia and America
The Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition is being launched in autumn 2012. The new model can then be combined in Europe, Asia and Australia with any of four of the engines offered for the Beetle (all direct injection engines with turbo chargers). The petrol engines (TSI) deliver 77 kW / 105 PS and 118 kW / 160 PS respectively, while the turbo diesel engines (TDI) produce in turn 77 kW / 105 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS. In the USA and South America the Beetle Fender will be available with two petrol engines (125 kW / 170 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS) and one turbo diesel (103 kW / 140 PS). Entry-level price for the Beetle Fender in 'Black Uni' with 105 PS TSI engine: €21,725 (Germany).

Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, 2013

Some special cars reflect the fundamental attitude of their owners - the new Beetle Cabriolet is such a car. Driving this Volkswagen shows that the people inside really enjoy a sporty design, colours and driving with the top down. Even ordering the new Beetle Cabriolet will be a cult act for most buyers - because many more options are available to express your individual taste than ever before: five standard equipment versions are available ("Beetle", "Design", "Design Exclusive", "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive") as well as three special models ("50's Edition", "60's Edition" and "70's Edition"). This range is supplemented by twelve finishes and two soft top colours, eleven different types of interior textile and leather trim, twelve rims, innumerable technical and visual features as well as efficient petrol and diesel engines with performance ranging from 77 kW /105 PS to 147 kW /200 PS. These are all turbocharged engines, available with optional six and sevenspeed dual clutch gearboxes. Fuel economy range for these efficient, high torque, four-cylinder engines: 4.5 to 7.8 l/100 km.

The Beetle Cabriolet is the lowest priced open-top car from Volkswagen
"The new Beetle Cabriolet", according to Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand, Technical Development, "takes the design of the original open Beetle and New Beetle, transferring the shapes to present times and enriching everything with a high degree of sportiness. In most European countries, the new Beetle Cabriolet can already be ordered, and at attractive prices". In Germany, this four-seater starts with a base price of 21,350 euros - making the opentop Beetle the lowest priced convertible in the Volkswagen range.

Top opens and closes while driving
The new Beetle Cabriolet has become larger and more majestic. It has an elongated, wider appearance, the roof is flatter, the proportions more dynamic. Beyond any performance figures and fuel economy values, the most important figure for a convertible: The time required to put down the top. Only 9.5 seconds with the Beetle Cabriolet, and thanks to its electric motor, this is an almost noiseless process. It even works while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. When retracted the soft top is stored compactly behind the rear seat where it does not restrict the view to the rear. The soft top on the Beetle Cabriolet can be closed in 11.0 seconds; the additional 1.5 seconds are required to allow the electric drive to automatically lock the roof to the windscreen frame.

Even a new car is a collector's item
The day they are delivered, purchasers of the new Beetle Cabriolets receive cars destined for a long service life. That's the way it has always been with the convertibles in this series: First new cars kept by the original owners for a long time, then classic and, finally, vintage cars. And used cars? Granted! Multitudes of the 565,000 convertibles under the Beetle label have taken this route. And that's the way it will be in the future.

Exterior
The design of the Beetle Cabriolet retains the distinctive charisma of the coupé, demonstrating, in open as well as closed state, the unmistakable and timeless character of the original Beetle Cabriolet. In both cases, it is the soft top that gives this car its very special style. In spite of all its modern features, with the top up, it is reminiscent of the early period of the automobile when all cars had rag tops. And the top of the new Beetle Cabriolet can be put down in only 9.5 seconds, allowing you to enjoy it as a pure summer car. When closed, the Beetle is automatically converted into a multi-talented companion for all seasons.

The roof in detail
Thanks to the so-called K-fold feature of this roof covered with multiple layers, weather-proof fabric (in "black" or "nutria beige"), the entire roof system can be put down in a very compact space. Result: Even with the top down, the boot volume (225 litres) remains the same as when the soft top is closed. The outer surface of this top consists of one centre section and two side parts; the seams between the centre section and sides also serve simultaneously as rain gutters. Volkswagen uses foam-bonded fabric for the headliner on the inside. An acoustically insulating fibre mat is located between the outer surface and headliner to bring the acoustic characteristics up to the same level appreciated in the Beetle with a metal roof or panoramic sunroof.

Soft top remains in optimum position even at high speed
The folding frame and tensioning structure form the basic design of the soft top. The top frame consists of the front section (interface to windscreen frame), two lateral frames with seals, the movable rear tensioning structure, one main pivot on each side, four arched elements (to which the soft top is also fastened) and the heated rear glass window. The attachment points between the soft top and roof frame ensure that the outer surface remains in its optimum position even at high speeds. Classy: As on the New Beetle Cabriolet, a circumferential chrome strip below the soft top and side windows separates the top from the body area.

Design and dimensions
With a length of 4,278 mm, the new convertible is 152 mm longer than the New Beetle. It is also 84 mm wider (1,808 mm, not including exterior rear-view mirrors). Since the convertible is 29 mm flatter, with a height of 1.473, the proportions alone give this Beetle a very sporty appearance.

Rear spoiler as standard feature

The style itself follows the Volkswagen design DNA. This is clearly demonstrated by the horizontal layout of the rear bumper, the front air inlet, the straight bonnet edges, the precisely drawn line between the A-pillars and soft top C-pillars or the design of the taillights. One thing is certain: All of the styling characteristics of the Beetle and New Beetle have been preserved - which is little surprise, because cars like the Beetle have had a decisive influence on Volkswagen's design DNA. Of course, other design features of the Beetle Cabriolet include the extending wings and clearly marked taillights, the shape of the bonnet, the rocker panels and door sills and - more than ever - the capability to integrate large wheels (up to 19 inch). An entirely new feature on the Beetle Cabriolet is the rear spoiler, which is homogeneously integrated into the design as a standard feature and helps to maintain high speed stability. The bottom surface of the rear spoiler is always finished in black, while the top is painted to match the colour of the car.

Uncompromising safety
Just like the New Beetle Cabriolet, this new open-top Volkswagen is equipped with a rollover protection system as a standard feature. This design of this invisible rollbar has been advanced in many respects, making it possible now to equip the convertible with symmetrically divided rear seat backrests and thus allowing transport of long items. Within milliseconds of the vehicle exceeding a defined lateral acceleration or vehicle inclination threshold, the rollover protection system shoots up behind the rear headrests. This mechanism is controlled by the central airbag actuating unit. For the newest version of this rollover protection system, use of high tensile strength steel and aluminium have made it possible to reduce the weight by nearly 50 per cent in comparison to other solutions.

Reinforced body shell
The rollover protection system is part of a comprehensive safety package, which ensures the highest level of passive safety for the convertible. Other specific modifications include a stable tubular member in the top edge of the door, reinforced A-pillars (additional 0.5 mm sheet metal thickness) and particularly strong rocker panels. On the Beetle Cabriolet, the A-pillars also consist of extremely stable, hot-shaped sheet metal. These features also serve to protect passengers in a head-on collision or when the car rolls. In side-on collisions, the function of the most important structural components are assumed by the reinforced B-pillars, the floor cross-members and the doors. The passive safety features are completed by the front airbags and side head-thorax airbags. The entire reinforcement and the rollover protection system results in 114 kilograms of additional weight for the convertible in comparison to the coupé.

Extreme torsional rigidity
Simultaneously, the body reinforcement improves the car's static and dynamic torsional rigidity. The resonant torsional frequency has an excellent value of 17.8 Hz. For this reason, the new Beetle Cabriolet does not require any vibration dampers, such as are frequently used on other convertibles.

Interior
What the Beetle Cabriolet has in common with the cabriolet of the New Beetle range is the truly "open" convertible feeling without the need for an extremely long windscreen frame. Both driver and passengers enjoy every millimetre of space to the roof frame, which is simply missing on other convertibles. Moreover: The additional exterior length of 152 mm in comparison to the New Beetle Cabriolet becomes very evident in the interior and boot. This impression is intensified by the fact that all four passengers enjoy generous headroom even with the roof closed; an additional 12 mm in comparison to the New Beetle Cabriolet.

Folding rear seat backrests as standard feature
Even when put down, the soft top does not limit the space in the boot; in comparison to the New Beetle Cabriolet, the volume was increased by 24 litres for a total of 225 litres. In contrast to the New Beetle Cabriolet, the symmetrically divided rear seat backrest can be folded down thanks to a newly developed rollover protection system.

Wind deflector eliminates drafts
The convertible can also be ordered with a wind deflector, which can easily be fastened above the rear seat, allowing you to take long trips with the roof open. When the wind deflector is in use, the two rear seats offer additional storage space. Perfection in detail: When not in use, the wind deflector can be stored in its own special compartment in the boot, where it is protected and takes up only minimal space.

Charismatic interior
Many details make the interior of the Beetle Cabriolet pleasantly unique. For instance, as already described, the relatively upright windscreen, reminiscent of classic sports cars. And the instrument panel - the Dash Pad - combining innovative technology and controls with an enamel finished surface and glove compartment similar to that in the air-cooled Beetle. It offers a great deal of space and comfort for four passengers. It has seats just as well-suited for a ride over the north loop as a trip from London to Lisbon. And there are shapes that are not an end in themselves but always have a functional purpose as well. For instance, the shape and colour of the instrument panel, which creates a visual bridge back to the time of the first Beetle, but is not retro.

Ambient illumination in red, white or blue
Next to the steering wheel, the Beetle Cabriolet not only has a small wheel for regulating the brightness of the instrument panel; it also has an (optional) second wheel with the scale markings "0", "r", "w" and "b". This wheel allows selection of the colour for the ambient illumination: Red, white or blue. Indirect illumination is provided on the top rail of the door, while direct illumination emanates from around the outer circumference of the door speakers in the form of a light ring. The multi-coloured ambient illumination is offered as a package in combination with the also optional Fender sound system. A single colour version (white) without light ring around the speakers is offered as a standard feature in combination with the "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive" versions.

Information and systems within easy view of the driver
In front of the driver, three round instruments (tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge) provide all significant information; a multi-function display is also integrated in the centre of the middle speedometer. Beginning with the "Design" version, the adjustable air vents and instruments also have chrome trim. This also applies to the audio/navigation system, which is located optimally in the centre of the dashboard, in the driver's field of vision. And beneath: the control for the air conditioning, a central switch strip for the hazard warning flasher and finally the shift lever with the start button for the engine located in front of it (optional).

Second glove compartment in Beetle style
Like the air-cooled Beetle, the Beetle Cabriolet has an additional glovebox with top-hinged lid integrated into the front trim on the passenger side (the standard glove compartment also integrated into the dashboard is hinged at the bottom). Other interesting features include the auxiliary instruments above the audio/navigation system with oil temperature display, stop watch and charge pressure indicator above the centre console on the instrument panel.

Equipment versions and special models
The new Beetle Cabriolet is being launched with five equipment versions: "Beetle," "Design," "Design Exclusive," "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive." Moreover, three special models are being offered for a limited time especially for this open version of the Beetle: the "50's Edition," "60's Edition" and "70's Edition," each with the flair of the decade after which it is named. Each of these eight different models has its own particular character.

Electrically operated top standard on every model
Standard features on every Beetle Cabriolet include an electrically-operated soft top, a soft top cover for use when the top is down (dust protection), electric windows all round, RCD 310 audio system (eight speakers, CD player, MP3 function, double tuner, AUX IN interface), daytime running lights, electronic stabilisation programme including electronic differential lock plus brake assist and hill climb assist, airbag system with front and side head-thorax airbags and active rollover protection system.

Bi-xenon headlights and Fender sound system
For the first time, the optional features available for the Beetle Cabriolet include details such as bi-xenon headlights, a keyless starting and locking system (Keyless Access), multi-colour ambient illumination, a Fender sound system (400 watts of pure power including subwoofer), automatic climate control, radio/navigation system, auxiliary instruments on the dashboard (stop watch, oil temperature, charge pressure) and alloy wheels up to 19".

"Beetle," "Design / Exclusive," "Sport / Exclusive"
Engine / equipment combinations. The two entry level engines (diesel and petrol each with a power output of 77 kW / 105 PS) can be ordered in combination with the "Beetle," "Design" and "Design Exclusive" specifications; the "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive" versions are not available with these engines. All five versions can be combined with the intermediate performance engines (103 kW / 140 PS and 118 kW / 160 PS). The top engine (147 kW / 200 PS) is available exclusively with "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive" specification.

"Beetle" equipment version
"Beetle" / exterior. The basic version of the Beetle Cabriolet can be distinguished by its black exterior trims - air intake grilles, door handles and the protective side trim as well as 16 inch steel wheels. As usual at Volkswagen, the side indicator lights have been integrated into the painted exterior rear-view mirror housings. One invisible Volkswagen standard: all relevant body parts are galvanised to prevent rusting. By contrast, very visible: the rear spoiler is a standard feature.

"Beetle" / interior. The so-called "Dash Pad" has an unobtrusive black finish on this version. Other standard equipment includes a three-spoke steering wheel, shift gate and cup holder with chrome trim, black door liners, large stowage compartments in doors, Easy Entry aid, symmetrically divided, folding rear seat backrests and height adjustment for front seats. The seats are upholstered with breathable fabric in "Beetle" design. Moreover, the parking brake lever button, heater controls, door pull handles as well as the clip on the light knob are all refined with chrome trim or are solid chrome.

"Beetle" / functions. Always included are features such as the electric drive for the soft top, the hill climb assist system, electric windows and electric rear-view mirror adjustment, convenience flasher (press 1 x - flashes 3 x), vertical and axial adjustment for the steering column, make-up mirrors in sun visors, plus multi-function display, RCD 310 radio/CD system with eight speakers, electro-mechanical and speed-dependent power steering, warning tone when lights are not switched off, as well as visual and audible warnings for unbuckled seat belts (system senses all seats), two reading lights and central locking system with RF remote control.

"Beetle" / safety. Every Beetle Cabriolet is equipped with Volkswagen's electronic stabilisation programme (including ABS, brake assist, EDS, ASR and counter-steer assist), daytime running lights, three-point seat belts (with tensioners on front seats), ISOFIX fixtures in the rear bench seat for use with compatible child seats, front airbags, combined head-thorax airbags for driver and front passenger, reflectors in doors and automatic hazard warning flasher (for emergency braking manoeuvres).

"Design" equipment version
"Design" / exterior. The "Design" version is based on the "Beetle" version but offers even more exclusive features. These start outside with body-coloured door handles and protective side trim (latter with chrome strip). The black air inlet grilles at the front are accentuated by chrome trim. 16-inch light alloy "Whirl" rims with wide 215 mm tyres complete the appearance.

"Design" / interior, functions, safety. Inside, the attractive dash pad is also painted to match the colour of the car. Integrated into the dash pad in front of the front seat passenger is the so-called "Beetle compartment" located behind a top-hinged lid and also painted to match the colour of the car. It is latched with a silver-coloured catch. Also painted to match the colour of the car: The top door rail. Stowage compartments on the rear of the front seats as well as a chrome clasp for the light knob and chrome trim around the controls for the ventilation system or optional air conditioning are also standard. Also chrome: the trim around the instruments, the decorative rings around the side air vents and the radio module, plus the trim on the electric window switches. Moreover, the "Design" version includes comfort front seats, "Design" seat covers, a three-spoke steering wheel with trim to match the colour of the car, carpet mats (front and rear), fog lights with static cornering feature as well as indirect background lighting in the area of the two reading lights between the driver and front passenger.

"Design Exclusive" equipment version
"Design Exclusive" / exterior. Those choosing the "Design Exclusive" version of the Beetle Cabriolet automatically benefit from 18-inch light alloy "Twister" wheels (with black, high gloss surface), wheel locks for improved anti-theft protection and 235 mm wide tyres.

"Design Exclusive" / interior. In comparison to the standard "Design" version, the interior of the "Design Exclusive" model gains a black dash pad, stainless-steel door sill panels with "Volkswagen Exclusive" monogram, ornamental seams in "Art Grey" as well as a leather cover for the steering wheel, shift lever handle and parking brake lever, a centre armrest (front), sport seats (front), leather seat mid-section and sides ("Nappa" cool leather) as well as carpet floor mats with coloured edging (front and rear).

"Design Exclusive" / functions. The Design Exclusive version of the Beetle Cabriolet also includes standard features such as heated seats and lumbar supports (front seats) as well as a tyre pressure indicator.

"Sport" equipment version
"Sport" / exterior. On the exterior, the Beetle Cabriolet Sport is equipped with large 17-inch light alloy "Spin" rims and 215/55 tyres, giving it a dynamic appearance. Also standard are the red-painted brake callipers (with 147 kW / 200 PS engine), black-finished exterior rear mirror housings and protective side trim (latter with chrome application), chrome trim on the air intake grille, chrome-plated exhaust pipe tips (with 147 kW / 200 PS engine) and anodised aluminium trim strips.

"Sport" / interior, functions, safety. Inside, the Beetle Cabriolet Sport offers a dash pad with sporty carbon look plus "Beetle compartment"; customers also have the option to order the dash pad in black or body colour. Standard equipment also includes ambient illumination (single colour), sport seats with lumbar support (front) in "Sport" design (with stowage pockets on front seat backrests), a three-spoke steering wheel with black-finished decoration, leather parking brake lever and gear knob, aluminium-look pedals, chrome trim on controls for air conditioning (standard in this case), black-finished upper door rails and carpet mats. Also standard: Fog lights with static cornering feature and front indirect background lighting.

"Sport Exclusive" equipment version
"Sport Exclusive" / exterior. The "Sport Exclusive" version of the Beetle Cabriolet is equipped with 18-inch light alloy "Twister" rims (with black, high gloss surface) including locking wheel bolts and 235 mm tyres.

"Sport Exclusive" / interior. In comparison to the "normal" "Sport" version, the interior of the Exclusive model also has a black dash pad, stainless steel door sill panels with "Volkswagen Exclusive" monogram, ornamental seams in "Art Grey" for the steering wheel, gear knob and parking brake lever, a centre armrest (front), leather seat mid-section and sides ("Nappa" cool leather) as well as carpet mats with coloured edging (front and rear).

"Sport Exclusive" / functions. The Sport Exclusive version of the Beetle Cabriolet also includes standard features such as heated seats and lumbar supports (front seats) as well as a tyre pressure indicator.

Special "50's", "60's" and "70's" models
Homage to original Volkswagen Beetle convertible. As previously mentioned, some cars reflect the characters of their owners. Anyone who attempts to capture the spirit of a certain era with his or her clothes, hairdo or décor will also transfer this preference to their car. The new Beetle Cabriolet makes this possible for the first time. Background: For the market launch of the open-top Beetle, Volkswagen has devised three special edition models: the stylish "50's Edition," the cool "60's Edition" and the elegant "70's Edition". Each of these three editions reflects the character of its specified decade - and also pays homage to the legendary original VW Beetle convertible.

Special "50's Edition"
Classic black exterior. The exterior is distinguished by the 17" light alloy "Circle Black" rims (basic colour black with chrome-plated rim edge and also chrome-plated hub caps), chrome-plated exterior rear mirror caps, "50's" badges in chrome, black soft top, fog lights with cornering feature and "Uni-Black 50's Edition" paintwork. The interior features provided as standard on the "50's Edition" include items such as heated sport seats with lumbar support (front), black dash pad and door trim, "Vienna" leather trims - as contrast to black in light "nutria beige" or two-tone "salsa red / titanium black" - carpet mats (front and rear), three-spoke leather steering wheel, air conditioning, exclusive RCD 510 audio system (incl. full colour TFT touchscreen, CD changer, MP3 function, AUX IN interface and double tuner) with eight speakers, plus multifunction display as well as cruise control.

Up to 160 PS. The "50's Edition" can be ordered in combination with all TDI and TSI engines available for the Beetle Cabriolet up to 118 kW / 160 PS.

Special "60's Edition"
Statement in light blue or cool white. The "60's Edition" captures the flair of the sixties with high quality sport seats (front, with lumbar supports) in two-tone "Vienna" leather ("Atlantic blue / titanium black or "salsa red / titanium black"), choice of "Denim blue" or "Candy white" paintwork, black soft top, "60's" badges and auxiliary instruments (charge pressure, oil temperature and stop watch). Also matching: 18" light alloy "Twister" rims (base colour black with five high gloss spokes) and black exterior rear mirror caps. Also included as standard features: Cruise control, carpet mats (front and rear), three-spoke leather steering wheel, plus multifunction display, RCD 510 top audio systems (incl. full colour TFT touchscreen, CD changer, MP3 function, AUX IN interface, double tuner and eight speakers), MEDIA IN as USB interface, fog lights with cornering feature and chrome "Volkswagen" monogram on boot lid.

With 140 PS or 160 PS. The "60's Edition" is offered with a 118 kW / 160 PS TSI engine (petrol, with optional seven-speed DSG) and TDI (diesel) with 103 kW / 140 PS (with optional six-speed DSG).

Special "70's Edition"
Noble in toffee brown or platinum grey. The "70's Edition" is designed for elegance - with "toffee brown metallic" or "platinum grey metallic" paintwork, each matched to the beige-colour soft top and the leather seats ("Vienna" in "nutria beige," front sport seats with lumbar supports). Chrome dominates the large 18" light alloy "Disc" wheels and the exterior rear mirror housings. Other standard features on the new "70's Edition" Beetle Cabriolet include fog lights with cornering feature, "70's" badges, cruise control, multi function display, carpet mats (front and rear), three-spoke leather steering wheel and the high quality RCD 510 audio system (incl. full colour TFT touchscreen, CD changer, MP3 function, AUX IN interface and double tuner) with eight speakers.

Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

•  Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept, 2012

The latest Beetle might be 'more power, less flower', but that doesn't mean that it's anything other than environmentally conscientious, and that's especially the case with the Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept, which is powered purely by electricity.

Revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the two-seat VW E-Bugster Concept continues the latest Beetle's sporty theme. An electric motor provides 85 kWh of power, which can propel it from 0 to 60 mph in 10.9 seconds, and yet offer a range of at least 110 miles from the 28.3 kWh lithium-ion batteries. Even in a country as large as America, that's sufficient for the majority of commuters' needs, while if the E-Bugster needs a top-up, a fast-charging function allows complete recharging in just 35 minutes.

The quick charging is possible thanks to a new Combined Charging System that was developed in co-operation with Audi, BMW, Daimler, Porsche, Ford and General Motors/Opel. This allows charging via single-phase AC sources (for example a 120-Volt US or 230-Volt European domestic outlet) or via ultra-fast DC sources at specific charging stations. To succeed, this will require the development of a uniform industry standard for sockets and plugs and also for the charge controller, so that all charging types can be handled.

Of course, the Volkswagen E-Bugster doesn't charge only when plugged in: as soon as the driver's foot leaves the accelerator pedal kinetic energy is transformed into electricity and stored in the battery. Applying the brakes increases the intensity of regeneration, a function that is indicated to the driver in the instrument panel. Other instruments include driving range and battery state indicators, and a meter that shows how much energy the driver is requesting via the accelerator pedal.

At 4,278 mm long and 1,838 mm wide, the E-Bugster is the same length as a standard Beetle but 30 mm wider, while the new roof lowers the height by around 90 mm to 1,400 mm. This helps to give the Volkswagen E-Bugster its more dynamic and sporty look. The low, swept-back windscreen ensures maximum visibility, as does the wide rear screen, which shows that speedster-style vehicles need not be impractical.

Both front and rear bumpers have been substantially modified from those of the production Beetle. At the front, LED daytime running lights at the outer edges of the central air intake form a C-shape on the left that is mirrored on the right - a signature feature of Volkswagen's electric vehicle concepts. This is also true at the back, where reflectors take the place of LEDs. Beneath the flared wheel arches sit 20-inch alloy wheels that are adapted from the 18-inch 'Twister' alloys of the production car, with 235/35 tyres. Around the bottom edge of the side windows is a chrome strip that loops around the vehicle from A-pillar to A-pillar. From this chrome strip to the top of the VW E-Bugster's hard top the height is a low 400mm.

Inside, the two-seat interior reflects the E-Bugster's blend of high-tech and sportiness, with sports seats nestling either side of a continuous centre console, plus aluminium door handles and seatbelt guides.

Starting the Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept is pure theatre: upon pressing the Start button the interior is bathed in white light, then blue light. It starts with a light pulse in the instrument cluster, from where the light emanates in a millimetre-wide strip, coursing into the doors and around the air nozzles.

If the E-Bugster's name is familiar, it should be: it takes some inspiration from the Ragster concept that made its debut at the 2005 Detroit Show, and which itself inspired the current Beetle. The 'E' of the name signifies the vehicle's electric power, and the 'Bug' part of the name should need no explanation.

Volkswage Cross Coupe TDI Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  Volkswage Cross Coupe TDI Concept, 2012

Research - regardless of the area of research - always aims to identify solutions that point the way to the future. In December 2011, it was the VW Cross Coupé - a concept vehicle from Volkswagen - which with a fuel consumption value of just 2.7 l/100 km (equivalent to 62 g/km CO2) illustrated a technical approach to implementing an SUV that can be extremely fuel-efficient despite its high performance and all-wheel drive system. This plug-in hybrid concept was driven by two electric motors and a turbocharged petrol direct-injection engine (TSI). Now, Volkswagen has conceptualised an even more fuel-efficient Cross Coupé. It is powered by an alliance of a turbodiesel direct-injection engine (TDI) and two electric motors. Its combined fuel consumption in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) is a sensationally low of 1.8 l/100 km. This is equivalent to CO2 emissions of just 46 g/km. Noteworthy here is the fact that the Cross Coupé is a powerful SUV with a top speed of 220 km/h, 225 kW / 306 PS of power (system power) and a kerb weight of 1,858 kg. Volkswagen is presenting the concept with a TDI plug-in hybrid in a world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show (08 to 18 March 2012).

Efficiency and driving fun meld together
High-tech network. Technically, the SUV is based on the new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) from Volkswagen AG.
Within the MQB, there are certain design parameters that are standardised across model series and brands - such as the distance between the accelerator pedal and the front wheel axis and the mounting position for all engines. There are also variable parameters that make it possible to optimally and individually develop a wide variety of models. They include such parameters as the wheelbase, track widths and wheel sizes, for example.

In the new Volkswagen Cross Coupé, MQB elements for a future generation of SUVs - in this case, the MQB front and rear suspensions, 140 kW / 190 PS TDI of the new EA288 engine series and a 6-speed DSG. They were merged with electrical components that are also "made by Volkswagen", and they include the lithium-ion battery in the centre tunnel, front E-motor with 40 kW and rear E-motor with 85 kW.

Breadth of variations. The Cross Coupé also impressively demonstrates the large breadth of variations that can be implemented based on the MQB. It should be noted that the modular systems used in the concept car could theoretically have been used, just as easily, to produce a full hybrid (without external interface) or a vehicle with only an internal combustion engine or only an electric drive instead of the plug-in hybrid (battery with external interface for charging) that was actually implemented.

Efficiency and dynamic performance. Efficient drive technologies can offer extreme levels of dynamic performance. The new Cross Coupé demonstrates this par excellence. Its combination of cutting-edge fuel efficiency and exceptional dynamic performance demonstrate that an all-round vehicle of a sporty kind has been created here like never before. The Volkswagen Cross Coupé being shown in Geneva accelerates to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, and its TDI develops a torque of up to 400 Nm from very low revs - from approx. 1,600 rpm. Practically at the press of a button, the two E-motors deliver 180 Nm of torque in front and 270 Nm at the rear. During boosting - which involves full use of both motors and the engine - the drive system supplies a maximum system torque of 700 Nm. This performance positions the concept car in the field of today's high-performance sports cars, yet the vehicle consumes less fuel than any other small car!

Intelligent networking of drive systems
Zero emissions thanks to electric motors. In pure electric mode - in this case its speed is limited to 120 km/h -, the concept car can cover up to 45 km. This is sufficient driving range for most of the world's commuters to drive to work with zero emissions. In pure E-mode, the driver can choose whether the focus should be on optimising electric driving range or dynamic performance. This is implemented by the combination of E-mode and CITY mode and the combination of E-mode and SPORT mode. In the electric driving range maximising E-mode (CITY), only the E-motor on the rear axle powers the car. In the dynamic E-mode (SPORT), the electric drive system powers both the rear and front wheels. In pure electric driving, the turbodiesel is decoupled from the drivetrain by disengaging the clutch, and it is shut off. The clutch on the gearbox side remains closed, and the 6-speed DSG is engaged. The E mode is activated by pressing what is knowna s the EV mode button (EV: electric vehicle) next to the gear shift lever. The Cross Coupé then drives like a purely electric vehicle. Even during fast driving, the internal combustion engine is not engaged, provided that the battery is sufficiently charged. As soon as the power of the TDI is needed again, either because of the battery's charge state or other parameters, the engine engages without any jolt, and it is once again actively coupled to the drivetrain within fractions of a second.

Battery in the centre tunnel. In pure electric driving, the E-motors are supplied with energy from a lithium-ion battery that consists of eight modules. The battery has an energy capacity of 9.8 kWh and is located in the centre tunnel of the Cross Coupé. Power electronics operating at a voltage of approx. 370 Volt, which is integrated in the front engine compartment, manages the flow of high-voltage energy to and from the battery and the electric motors. Meanwhile, the 12 Volt electrical system is supplied with power via a DC/DC converter. The electric drive system does not impose any space limitations on the interior. The battery can be charged either from external power sources (230 Volt connection) or while driving.

Charging also at push of a button. The driver can intentionally switch to CHARGE mode (by pressing another button next to the gear shift lever) to charge the battery via the TDI engine while driving. This mode might make sense, for example, if the driver wishes to drive in certain designated environmental zones that might be toll-free for electric vehicles operating with zero emissions. The momentary electric driving range and total range of the Volkswagen Cross Coupé are continually displayed in the instruments. An engine controller regulates the overall energy and drive management system under consideration of the specific load demanded by the driver. The driver can choose from a total of five driving modes: CITY (an eco mode with minimal fuel consumption), SPORT (high dynamic performance), OFFROAD (continuous all-wheel drive), E-mode (pure electric driving) as EV-CITY or EV-SPORT, or CHARGE (via the TDI). In parallel, the Cross Coupé utilises different operating states, in which the motors/engine and drive axles are coupled or decoupled as a function of driving needs:

Zero emissions by 'sailing'. As soon as the driver lifts his or her foot from the accelerator, both electric motors and the engine are shut off and decoupled from the drivetrain - provided that the battery is sufficiently charged. This is referred to as 'sailing'. Zero emissions are generated in this case as well.

Zero emissions in battery regeneration mode. If the driver takes his or her foot off the accelerator pedal or brakes, and the battery is not sufficiently charged, the two electric motors are operated as generators to feed energy recovered from braking into the lithium-ion battery. The TDI is also shut off and decoupled in this operating state.

Boosting. When driving should be especially sporty in nature, the E-motors form an alliance with the TDI. In the professional jargon of the hybrid world this joining of forces is known as 'Boosting'. The Cross Coupé is driven by all four wheels in this mode.

Offroad with 'electric propshaft'. As soon as the driver chooses to activate OFFROAD mode, all four wheels are once again driven. However, in this mode the front electric motor, now supplied with energy by the TDI, is the sole source of electrical power for its counterpart at the rear axle. Since the energy for the rear electric drive is by wire and does not flow mechanically, this is referred to as an 'electric propshaft'. Since the TDI powers the rear electric motor via the front electric motor in OFFROAD mode, the all-wheel drive system is fully functional, even if the lithium-ion battery is in a low charge state.

Driving with the TDI. If the TDI is powering the vehicle by itself, the Cross Coupé is a pure front-wheel drive vehicle. In driving states in which greater fuel efficiency is possible by load boosting, the E-motors act as generators to charge the battery. When all of the on-board energy reserves are utilised, the vehicle's combined fuel consumption value is 1.8 l/100 km; the vehicle's 55 litre fuel tank thus enables a theoretical driving range of 1,287 km.

The new TDI of the Cross Coupés
Engines of the MQB. As noted, the TDI of the Volkswagen Cross Coupé is an engine developed especially for use in the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB). A key characteristic of the MQB is a uniform mounting position for all engines. Therefore, Volkswagen developed two new engine series - the EA288 series was created for the diesels, and the EA211 series for the new petrol engines. Within the MQB, these two engine series and relevant electric motors make it possible to implement any classic, alternative or hybrid drive system.

Range of turbodiesels. The new TDI engines of the MQB will be available in versions with 1.6 and 2.0 litre displacement and will span a power range from 66 kW / 90 PS to the 140 kW / 190 PS of the concept car in Geneva. The diesel engines are not only exceptionally low-emitting, fuel-efficient and torque-strong. They are also exceptionally refined and smooth running. Consider the 2.0 TDI of the Cross Coupé: two balancer shafts are used. They eliminate system-induced free inertial forces that naturally occur in a reciprocating engine. Meanwhile, the toothed belt drive for the oil and vacuum pump, which operates in the sump oil, and the engine's encapsulated injection nozzles also have a positive effect on acoustic comfort.

SUV styling meets coupé dynamics
More streamlined than other SUVs. At a length of 4,357 mm, the Cross Coupé is longer than a Golf and shorter than a Tiguan. The vehicle's width (1,868 mm) and height (1,523 mm) are positioned exactly between these two bestsellers as well. The concept vehicle's wheelbase of 2,630 mm is clearly long relative to its overall length (52 mm longer than in the Golf, 26 mm more than the Tiguan). This makes the body overhangs short (855 mm in front, 860 mm at rear), and in the interplay of all dimensions the car's overall proportions are extremely attractive. The vehicle's large track widths of 1,585 mm (front) and 1,613 mm (rear) emphasise its powerful appearance. More important to driving on unpaved trails are parameters such as the vehicle's approach/departure angles and its ramp angle. The approach angle in front is a good 24.2 degrees, while the departure angle at the rear is 32.5 degrees - excellent for offroad driving. The ramp angle, which is important for driving over hilltops, is 15 degrees.

Precisely shaped coupé silhouette. Defining the look of the Cross Coupé are its very long bonnet, new front end styling, passenger compartment shifted significantly towards the rear, and very streamline line of windows compared to conventional SUVs. Overall, the designers also gave the vehicle muscular, athletic and yet very clean lines. In keeping with the powerful appearance of the Volkswagen Cross Coupé, it is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with 265/45 tyres. Towards the rear, a large-volume coupé-like C-pillar is built over the wheel housings.

Impressive front end. The characteristic horizontal lines of the 'Volkswagen face' forge a link between present and future on the Cross Coupé. Different than on today's models, the designers have physically merged the xenon dual headlights and chrome ribs of the radiator grille. Specifically, the headlights join to two overlapping chrome strips. Chrome wings ascending towards the outside emphasise the vehicle's width and are part of a new type of lighting concept; the lower of the two chrome wings contains the daytime running light, while the upper wing houses the direction indicators. The LED fog lights are mounted in the bottom section of the bumper.

Rear of a SUV coupé. The rear is also typified by a streamlined line of side windows. Typical of a coupé is the rear window that is worked in at a low angle. At its top, the boot lid terminates in a spoiler, which visually extends the roof surface and technically optimises aerodynamics as a trailing edge. The rear lights have a narrow profile. Typical of an SUV, meanwhile, is the brawny rear bumper, in which dual tailpipes are integrated to the outer left and right.

Sporty interior with rugged qualities
The best of two worlds. The SUV and coupé worlds form an exciting alliance in the Cross Coupé. In the four-seat interior, this has resulted in all design details being much sportier than in conventional SUVs. Consider the instruments: they have the dynamically precise lines of a coupé, but they are positioned up high as in an SUV. The surfaces of the instruments are very sophisticated in their construction, but they are designed to be very rugged. This ruggedness is also reflected in user controls, handles and the general feel of interior elements. Take the centre console, for example: two aluminium dials make control of powertrain and climate functions quick and easy. Located between these two dials is the button for the electronic parking brake, and in front of it are the gear shift grip of the 6-speed DSG, also in aluminium. Integrated in front of this, in turn, is the start button for the drive system. To the right and left of the gear shift lever, there are sturdy yet elegant grab handles and, on the right side, the selection buttons for pure electric driving and active battery charging. Further up, there is a touchscreen display, on which onroad and offroad navigation and all relevant vehicle features up to and including the audio system are shown.

Programmable instruments. Arranged behind the three-spoke steering wheel is a user-programmable instrument cluster display. A control wheel to the left of the gear shift lever can be used to dynamically change the display contents between the modes 'SPORT', 'CITY' and 'OFFROAD'. The functionally different display mode contents are activated based on this selection - a gyrometer, compass and topographic map are shown in OFFROAD mode, for example. All three modes have unique layouts, and they also have different colour schemes. Centrally positioned between the two round instruments is another multifunction colour display for showing vehicle information, the telephone menu, audio information and other navigation data as well as a 3D offroad view.

Ergonomics for long trips. The Volkswagen Cross Coupé is equipped with four individual seats, each designed as a shell with a permanently integrated head restraint. These seats exhibit very balanced ergonomic properties. There is ample room for all four occupants - to their sides, in front of them and above them. The backrests of the rear seats and front passenger's seat can be folded forward completely to load surfboards, paragliders or other bulky equipment in the Cross Coupé. Helpful here: the backrests have exterior plastic shells; folding them produces a durable cargo surface. The boot behind the rear seats has a volume of 380 litres (up to the height of the window sill). When the interior is filled to the backs of the front seats and all the way to the roofliner, cargo capacity increases to 1,230 litres - a lot of space for a car that only consumes 1.8 l/100 km!

Volkswagen Beetle, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

• Volkswagen Beetle, 2012

A look back to the start: at the beginning Volkswagen built one of the most successful cars of all time and did not even give it a name. Why should it? After all, it was the Volkswagen! People loved it, and on all of the world's continents the small car was nicknamed according to precisely what it looked like: Beetle, Käfer, Vocho, Coccinelle, Fusca, Maggiolino or ???! It embodied the automotive concept itself and symbolised the democratisation of mobility. 21.5 million cars were sold. Then the New Beetle arrived in 1998. It introduced a new automotive feeling to the world and brought with it Beetle Mania. In 2010, the Final Edition completed the New Beetle series that had sold more than one million cars. And now? A look forward. The future of the most famous car in the world begins now. In a completely new generation. It's The Beetle! And because Volkswagen and the Beetle call the globe their home, the new car is celebrating a transcontinental world debut - simultaneously in Shanghai, Berlin and New York .

Technological goal: high-tech in harmony with the environment
Volkswagen Beetle is an icon. This car tells a story. Only someone who knows its history could make a new generation of this Volkswagen a reality. The task ahead for the engineers was very clear. They had to develop a high-tech car that was still affordable, did not leave any stone unturned, integrated the communication technologies of our times and of course achieved the lowest environmental impact. It also had to be a car that places driving fun at the forefront. The new generation VW Beetle would have to be a very agile, dynamic performer, and the people who developed the Golf GTI would also be able to achieve this.

No previous Beetle was this fuel efficient. High performance no longer suffices by itself: At 4.3 l/100 km (European 1.6 TDI) and 33 mpg (American 2.0 TDI), the new Volkswagen Beetle is the most fuel-efficient Beetle ever.

Design target: "Design a new original!"
The most recognisable automotive design in the world. Coke bottle, iPhone, Ray Ban Aviator, Beetle - how does one reinvent a design that is so recognisable and independent? There is a clear answer to this: It is necessary to understand the product and the brand; then it works! Volkswagen Design Chief Walter de Silva (Group) and Klaus Bischoff (Volkswagen Brand) "understand" both and therefore they set this as the objective for the Beetle: "Design a new original!"

Challenge as a thrill. The team began its task under Bischoff's guidance. The challenge of designing a new Volkswagen Beetle was inspiring. The designers knew that they wanted to develop the original Beetle profile more than on the 1998 New Beetle. They also made very dynamic proportions a high priority. An interesting aspect was that more than a few team members actually own their own air-cooled Beetles. It has also become a cult car among younger designers at Volkswagen. And that is how the final design of the 2011 Beetle came to be in Wolfsburg - a car of today as well as a design tribute to the automotive seed of an entire corporate group. And unmistakable indeed: If one were to take the first Beetle and the new Beetle and place them in a room together - shining light just over the roofs and viewing them from the side - one would see that the lines of the rear sections are nearly identical.

No standing still: "We remade every part."
Bolder, more dynamic, more masculine. A comparison to the 1998 New Beetle shows this: nothing remained as it was on the old car: "The Beetle is now characterised by a clean, self-confident and dominant sportiness. The car not only has a lower profile; it is also substantially wider, the front bonnet is longer, the front windscreen is shifted further back and has a much steeper incline. All of this creates a new dynamism," explains Klaus Bischoff. While the New Beetle was defined by three semi-circles (front wing, rear wing, domed roof above it), the new model has broken free of this geometry. The roof profile actually runs distinctly lower and can be considered a continuation of the Ragster concept car shown in Detroit in 2005 - a type of hot rod based on the New Beetle. The new Beetle is bolder, more dynamic, more masculine.

The figures confirm this: The new car is 1,808 mm wide (84 mm wider), 1,486 mm tall (12 mm lower) and 4,278 mm long (152 mm longer). This has resulted in entirely new proportions. The gain in length meant that the roof could be extended further, the front windscreen could be shifted back, and the rear section could follow the contour of the original Beetle. The new focal point is the C-pillar. In parallel, the development team increased the car's track widths and wheelbase. All of this gives the VW Beetle a powerful appearance with muscular tension.

Typical Volkswagen, typical Beetle: a new DNA
2011 styling. Despite all of its individuality, the styling follows the Volkswagen design DNA created by Walter de Silva and Klaus Bischoff. It clearly expresses itself in the horizontal image of the front bumper, front air inlet, straight lines of the bonnet edges, the precisely drawn line between the A-pillar and C-pillar and the styling of the rear lights.

Beetle, Microbus, original Golf. And yet it was possible to preserve all of the Volkswagen Beetle's typical styling characteristics. This should come as no surprise; after all, it was vehicles like the Beetle, Microbus and original Golf that had a decisive influence on Volkswagen's "design DNA." Of course, some of the Beetle's longstanding characteristics remain: these include its round headlights (optional bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are available for the first time in this model series), the flared wings, the shapes of the bonnets, sides and door sills and - more than ever - the large wheels (up to 19 inch) that can be integrated. A new feature is the rear spoiler that is homogeneously integrated in the design (standard for TSI engines with 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS); it aggressively maintains contact with the road on this Volkswagen, which has a top speed of up to 225 km/h, depending on the engine, and is available in the three equipment lines "Beetle", "Design" and "Sport". Incidentally, the top surface of the rear spoiler is always black, while its underside is painted in body colour. These colours - 12 different hues - will make everyday car driving more vibrant with names such as "Saturnyellow" and "Denim Blue".

An original interior like no other
The cockpit makes a visual impression. Is it possible for a cockpit to make an impression? Are you kidding? By its very nature! Car drivers sit in the cockpit. Sometimes for hours at a time. And yet, there are cars whose cockpits do not leave any lasting impression. They have a "look alike" appearance, as the marketing people say - one easily mistaken for another, lacking charisma. The VW Beetle's cockpit, on the other hand, is unique, unmistakable, cool, classic and designed with a passion for detail. This cockpit is perceived as something special.

Everything within reach and sight. The shape and use of colour in the painted or carbon-look front facia panel of the dashboard hark back to the design of the first VW Beetle, yet the new car does not have a retro look. In Europe, for example, this facia is styled in "Schwarz uni" (Black) on the base model ("Beetle"); in the "Design" equipment line, it is always painted in the specific exterior colour. Customers choosing the "Sport" level get the carbon look ("Carbon Fibre"). Regardless of which colours are used, Volkswagen drivers will be able to locate every interior feature with their eyes closed.

And yet everything has been redesigned. Three round instruments arranged in front of the driver (tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge) provide all key information; integrated in the speedometer (middle position) is a multifunction display. From the "Design" equipment level, the adjustable air vents and the instruments have chrome bezels. This also applies to the audio/navigation systems optimally located in the driver's visual field on the dashboard, framed by two air vents. This also includes the controls for the climate control system. Everything is within grasp and sight.

Comeback of the glovebox. Similar to the original Beetle, the new car has an extra glovebox integrated in the front facia whose lid folds upward (the standard glovebox that is also integrated opens downward). Another classic feature: the optional auxiliary instruments above the selected audio/navigation system: oil temperature, clock with stopwatch function and boost pressure gauge. Also new: the steering wheels specially designed for the Volkswagen Beetle with optional painted accents in the spokes depending on the equipment line. Details like these clearly indicate that the occupants are in a Beetle - there's no mistaking it.

Air-cooled Beetle. New Beetle. The Beetle. A distinguishing feature of The Beetle - the third generation if you will - is that its interior ergonomics and packaging are based on completely new parameters. While drivers in the air-cooled Beetle travelled in a very low-slung seat, and drivers of the New Beetle felt as if they were chauffeured because the bonnet was so far forward, the latest Volkswagen Beetle now offers an agile, driver-oriented coupé experience. Every feature is within easy reach. In addition, Volkswagen has once again succeeded in implementing a quality of materials that goes beyond all class limits. The car's styling, ergonomics, operability and quality interact to create a new, friendly car with a highly individual nature.

The New Beetle was a cathedral inside. In front, the Beetle is now somewhat lower in profile, since the domed roof of its predecessor has been eliminated. It now offers 1,044 mm interior height instead of the previous 1,082 mm. However, the 38 mm will hardly be missed, even by very tall drivers, since the New Beetle's interior was a "cathedral" among compact cars. Meanwhile, in the rear seating area, the longer roof section results in a distinctly larger feeling of space. The bootspace is significantly larger; it now holds 310 instead of 209 litres. As usual, the car has a split, folding rear seatback, and a wide opening bootlid making it is easy to load and unload.

More optional features: individualising the VW Beetle
"Beetle", "Design" and "Sport". The new Volkswagen will be available worldwide in the three equipment lines "Beetle", "Design" and "Sport". Each of these versions has a very unique character. In addition, individual markets themselves will emphasise certain aspects. Volkswagen will announce individual parameters of these customisation levels at an international driving presentation for journalists. In addition to the three equipment lines, the Beetle can be customised with a wide choice of optional features. An overview of certain key features:

Bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights. Volkswagen is offering the Beetle with bi-xenon headlights for the first time. 15 LEDs frame the xenon module on the outer perimeters of the headlights; they implement the daytime running lights and parking lights.

Panoramic roof. It is transparent, and it can be tilted or opened. Therefore, the exact name is: panoramic tilt/slide glass sunroof. Much more important: It is 80 percent larger (glass surface area) than on the previous model. Incidentally, the insulating glass blocks 99 percent of UV radiation and 92 percent of heat energy.

Radio-CD and radio-navigation systems. The New Beetle was exclusively available with radio-CD systems specially designed for this model. No navigation systems were offered. Now, Volkswagen is taking a completely different approach and is offering all of the systems available in other model series such as the Golf, Jetta or Passat on new VW Beetle as well. Standard in the Beetle is the RCD 310 with 8 loudspeakers, which is a very good audio system (includes dual tuner). The top audio system is the RCD 510 with integrated CD changer, interface for SD cards and touchscreen. An attractively priced entry-level radio-navigation system is the RNS 315 with 5-inch touchscreen (400 x 240 pixel), CD player, SD card slot and dual tuner. The top radio-navigation system model is the RNS 510. It offers refinements such as a 6.5-inch touchscreen, DVD player, voice control, SD card slot and 30 Gigabyte hard drive.

Premium sound system by Fender. Anyone knowledgeable about the world of rock music is familiar with such greats as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. The first played Fender guitars, while the latter still does. Now, the legendary producer of US musical instruments and amplifiers - in a joint venture with Panasonic - is exclusively sharing its know-how with the Volkswagen brand. The result is an optional Fender sound system that is being offered in the Volkswagen Beetle with an additional woofer and 400 Watts of output power. Those choosing this sound system also get adjustable interior ambiance lighting. Besides providing indirect illumination, it also includes two light rings around the loudspeaker boxes in the doors. In Europe, the Volkswagen Beetle is the first car to offer a Fender sound system.

Keyless Access. The Keyless Access locking and engine starting system is appearing for the first time in the Volkswagen Beetle; it operates without a door or ignition key. When one of the front door handles is touched, the system detects access authorisation from a transmitter carried in the person's jacket, trousers or hand bag; it then unlocks the Beetle and enables an engine start via the engine start button. Locking of the Volkswagen is from the outside, also activated by touching one of the two door handles; in this case, however, a specially marked surface is used.

All round safety. Let's get to the point. In The Beetle, Volkswagen is building an automobile that is one of the safest in terms of both active and passive safety. Naturally, the ESP electronic stabilisation programme is standard, as is an effective network of six airbags that protects in the passenger compartment. Naturally, the car body - much of it laser-welded and galvanised - exhibits one of the best torsional rigidity values in the segment at 26,000 Nm/º. Naturally, because safety is a fundamental quality in a Volkswagen.

Engines: top fuel economy of 40 mpg and 4.3 l/100km
US diesel with 140 PS. When it comes to engines, all signs point toward sustainability. In the USA, the VW Beetle will be offered as a turbodiesel for the first time. The Beetle 2.0 TDI (103 kW / 140 PS) meets all USA emission limits and attains 40 mpg fuel economy in the Highway cycle, 29 mpg in City driving, and 33 mpg combined. As a result, the Volkswagen Beetle is a good choice as one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class. Incidentally, the Volkswagen not only has excellent fuel economy values in the version with a 6-speed manual gearbox, but also - and this is a technical debut in the Beetle as well - with the optional 6-speed dual clutch transmission.

US petrol engines with 170 PS and 200 PS. Fuel economy values were also improved in the 2.5-litre five cylinder petrol engine, which was already a success in the previous model. The manually shifted VW Beetle attains 22 mpg (City), 31 mpg (Highway) and 25 mpg (combined). Its counterpart with a 6-speed automatic comes in at 22 mpg (City), 29 mpg (Highway) and 25 mpg (combined) - this represents an increase of up to 10 percent in fuel economy. Pioneering: even the Beetle 2.0 TSI with 147 kW / 200 PS of power attains a combined fuel economy of 25 mpg. The large TSI is also available with an optional 6-speed DSG.

World engines with 105 PS, 140 PS, 160 PS and 200 PS. In markets such as Asia, Australia, Europe and New Zealand, the new Volkswagen Beetle will be offered exclusively with charged engines. All engine versions - all of them with four cylinders - are being used for the first time in this model series. The car exhibits significantly reduced fuel consumption and emission values compared to the previous model thanks to the switch to turbo-petrol (TSI) and common rail turbodiesel direct injection engines (TDI). The three charged petrol engines of the Beetle output 77 kW / 105 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. The two diesel engines develop 77 kW / 105 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS (TDI engines are not offered in China). All five engines may be combined with a dual clutch transmission as an option.

Engines with 160 PS and 200 PS in detail. Even the fast moving 225 km/h VW Beetle 2.0 TSI with 200 PS of power consumes just 7.4 l/100 km (equivalent to 173 g/km CO2) with a manual transmission. Also extremely economical is the 1.4 TSI with 160 PS shifted by a 7-speed DSG; in the Beetle it consumes just 5.9 l/100 km (139 g/km CO2). Fuel economy data like this makes the Beetle 1.4 TSI DSG (top speed: 207 km/h) a pleasant surprise in the engine programme. By comparison, the previous model with 110 kW / 150 PS attained a value of 8.9 l/100 km in the automatic version. Despite 10 PS more power, fuel consumption was reduced by 3.0 l/100 km or 34 percent.

Differential lock for top petrol engine. To ensure that the power of the two strongest Volkswagen Beetle versions is applied properly to the road in quickly approached curves as well, the models with 160 PS (European version) and 200 PS (worldwide) come with a factory-installed XDS electronic differential lock. This system extends the familiar EDS functionality. XDS improves handling in fast curve driving and calibrates the car toward more "neutral" steering; it does this by using active brake intervention to prevent wheelspin of the unloaded wheel on the inside of the curve, and this improves traction.