New Volkswagen Beetle

The latest Beetle has grown up, both in appearance and size. It retains many elements of the previous model and continues to look like an iteration of the original design classic. The interiors lose the flower vase now but the upward-opening glovebox does add a hint of vintage Beetle to the new dashboard. There is more space than before too. India should get the 158bhp, 1.4-litre petrol engine and VW could import the Beetle with the 138bhp, 2-litre diesel too. 

The Beetle is more a designer accessory than a rival to conventional hatchbacks, so expect heavyweight pricing for this small car when it’s launched in late 2012.    

Factfile:

Engines: 1.4-litre turbo-petrol, 2-litre diesel

Power/Torque: 158bhp/24.5kgm,

138bhp/32.6kgm

Kerb weight: 1360kg

L/W/H: 4278/2021/2048

Expected: Late-2012

Price: Rs 25 lakh