New VW Beetle coming in 2011; Hi-res picture gallery added

The Beetle was reborn in 1998 after a two decade long absence. The present version is the first generation of the reborn Beetle with a newer version or the second-gen model expected next year with a Cabriolet following a year later. It will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November. The new Beetle will sport serious dynamic abilities with reduced focus on retro-styling. Is VW losing its way by not retaining the retro styling? We are not quite sure how this will impact the audience but we should be in a position to predict once it has been unveiled but VW hints that it has borrowed cues from the 2005 Ragster concept.

The Beetle shares most of its underpinnings and some driveline combinations with the Jetta and the next-gen cars will continue the tradition. The new generation chassis will ensure wider tracks and a longer wheelbase while VW claim that the ride will remain compliant inspite of increased dynamic abilities. Mcpherson struts combined with a Torsion bar will suspend the vehicle although the range-topping 210bhp 2.0L TSI is expected to get a multi-link setup at the rear.

Describing the new car’s design, one VW insider said, “It is more contoured, with additional structuring and defined feature lines used to help to break up the simple surfacing and unadorned character of the current model.”  The new Beetle will have a similar roofline to the Ragster’s. “The screen angles are less extreme and the roof structure is less rounded than it is at the moment,” .

However, the key features that are a trademark of all Beetles like rounded headlights and tail-lamps, separate wings over each wheel and a high waistline will be retained. Volkswagen has also developed a much wider range of exterior options for the Beetle. “We’ve recognised the need to provide buyers with the opportunity to individualise their cars,” said our source. “This is especially important on the Beetle.” Has competition from Fiat 500 forced you VW?

Taking in feedback from customers on the deep dashboard and lack of rear space, the new interiors are completely reworked. While the longer wheelbase and wider tracks would help, the lower roof will compromise headroom. Boot capacity is expected to rise to 250 litres.

A range of engines will power the new bug from the 105bhp 1.2 TSI, a 160bhp 1.4 TSI and a 210bhp 2.0 litre TSI. A US-bound 170bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder is not destined for Europe. Diesels will include the new 105bhp 1.6 and a 140bhp 2.0 litre. A hybrid is also planned, with a similar drivetrain to that of the Jetta CC from this year’s Detroit show: a 150bhp turbocharged/supercharged 1.4 with a 27bhp electric motor. With the present Beetle already roaming India’s streets, the new one is also expected to roll in. Since it is fully imported as a CBU, prices will start at well over Rs 25 lakhs. Gulp. Dont worry, there will be lots queing up as the 170 bookings for the present Beetle (within a month of its launch) shows.

Source