It’s never easy to replace an icon, let alone do it twice–but Volkswagen has certainly succeeded with the all-new, third-generation 2012 VW Beetle. Combining design elements from the very first Beetle with modern-day technology, performance and efficiency, the new model is a dynamic reinvention of an automotive classic.
It all starts with the new Beetle’s new shape, which retains the same lines as the original in the rear sections of the car but then, according to Klaus Bischoff, adds “a clean, self-confident and dominant sportiness. The car not only has a lower profile, it is also substantially wider, the front hood is longer, the front windshield is shifted further back and has a much steeper incline. All of this creates a new dynamism.”
Specifically, the 2012 Beetle, as compared to the second-gen “New Beetle,” is 3.3 inches wider, for an overall length of 71.2 inches; .5 inches lower, with a height of 58.5 inches; and 6 inches longer, now stretching 168.4 inches. In addition, both the track and wheelbase of the new vehicle have been increased to create a more powerful appearance.
And the ’12 Beetle will be able to live up to that appearance by offering one of VW’s renowned 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged I4 engines, capable of developing 200 hp and 207 lb.-ft. of torque—yet still deliver an estimated 30 mpg highway. The turbocharged Beetle also boasts a standard XDS limited-slip differential that can adjust the torque at each wheel for optimum performance in challenging conditions. Drivers will have a choice of either a standard six-speed manual transmission or the automaker’s highly regarded six-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic. A standard, integrated rear spoiler is in the mix here as well.
Two other engines will be offered, including a 2.5-liter I5 engine that has been enhanced to offer about 10 percent better fuel efficiency than the outgoing I5. Packing a standard five-speed manual transmission, the 2012 Beetle is expected to achieve EPA ratings of 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway; leveraging the optional six-speed automatic, ratings should reach 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway.
For performance of a different kind, the availability of a 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engine will result in the most fuel-efficient Beetle ever. The bottom line: Producing a responsive 140 hp and a robust 236 lb.-ft. of torque, the turbocharged diesel engine is expected to push the car’s highway fuel efficiency mark to a standout 40 mpg highway and its city performance to 29 mpg. And as with the turbocharged gas engine, owners of the diesel will be able to choose between a standard six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed DSG automatic.
Two different trim lines—the style-oriented “Design” and enthusiast-targeted “Sport” packages—add further opportunities for fine-tuning the newest Beetle, as do a wide range of options, including:
- Painted-spoke steering-wheel accents
- A touchscreen navigation system
- A panoramic tilt/slide sun roof that is a full 80 percent larger than the current unit, and able to block 99 percent of the
- sun’s UV radiation and 92 percent of its heat energy.
- A 400-watt Fender premium audio system with a subwoofer and proprietary Panasonic speaker technology
- Keyless access/remote start
- Bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights
Capped off by a full suite of cutting-edge safety technologies, the all-new 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is clearly destined to both satisfy customers and bug the competition.
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