PARIS SHOW: New Beetle more like a MINI
VW sets its sights on successful MINI formula for new New Beetle2010 PARIS MOTOR SHOW NEWS SPECIAL
Volkswagen is poised to put some power into the next generation of its 'flower power' car, the Beetle.
The New Beetle, introduced in 1998, is due to be replaced by the end of 2011 by an all-new model that is said to be much sportier than the current car, and a lot closer to a MINI in concept if not in size. Indeed, the next generation Beetle is expected to be lower, wider and roomier than the current car –which was a triumph of retro design but had a poorly layed out interior.
The next generation Beetle will also have more dynamic handling and more power to compete more directly with BMW's MINI models.
Volkswagen board member Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, told the Carsales Network: "The original New Beetle was done as a design concept and the engineers had to work around it. It was not so easy. The next one is based on an engineering package but you will still see it's a Beetle.
"We will take the design language of the Beetle but it will be more sporty, and yet more practical. There are not so many compromises. The new car will sit a lot lower on the road; a lot more sporty."
Hackenburg also hinted that the name may change. We asked if the new model would be called the New New Beetle, he said: "Beetle will still be inside the name".
The New Beetle was popular in North America and Asia but not such a hit in Europe (or Australia). The design changes are expected to broaden its appeal, he said, in Europe where the MINI Cooper in particular is popular.
"People are looking for something different so the next generation will be a different concept for the Beetle, but it will still be a Beetle."
The next Beetle will still made in Mexico, and the engine will still be under the bonnet (not behind the back seat as was the case with the original model). It will also be available as a coupe as well as a convertible.
The coupe is due to go into production in 2011 and arrive in Australian showrooms in early 2012.
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