The new Volkswagen Beetle is now open for ordering, ahead of the first UK deliveries in spring 2012. At launch, two engines will be available: a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission and a 1.4-litre 160 PS TSI with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Three trim levels will be available: Beetle, Design and Sport. The 1.2-litre is offered in Beetle or Design trim from £16,490 (RRP OTR) and the 1.4-litre in Design or Sport trim from £19,470. Three other engines – a 1.6-litre TDI BlueMotion Technology 105 PS, 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS and 2.0-litre TSI 200 PS – will be joining the line-up later in 2012 along with the option of a six-speed manual gearbox for the 1.2-litre TSI model.
Specification levels are high. The standard Beetle comes with air conditioning, remote central locking, an RCD 310 CD system with DAB radio and rear Isofix seat preparation.
Moving to the mid-level Design trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels in a choice of two styles, Bluetooth telephone preparation with MDI (multi-device interface) iPod connectivity, front fog lights, an alarm, an RCD 510 DAB CD/radio, multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel and body-coloured door and dashboard panels.
The range-topping Sport specification brings 18-inch alloys in a choice of two styles, tinted glass, cruise control, sports seats, parking sensors, gloss black door mirrors, dashboard and door panel and 2Zone electronic climate control.
A wide range of optional equipment will also be available, including Keyless Access, satellite navigation systems, a panoramic sunroof and bi-xenon headlights.
The option that is expected to make the biggest impact is the Fender sound pack. Developed in conjunction with the legendary electric guitar firm of the same name, this audiophile’s delight offers a 400W output and a subwoofer, along with switchable three-colour illumination surrounding the front loudspeakers, all for just £495.
Order books open today, with initial customer deliveries expected in spring 2012.
Beetle model line-up and pricing (for full details see price list):
| Trim level |
Engine derivative |
CO2, g/km |
Combined mpg | Price, £ RRP OTR |
| Beetle | 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS 7 spd DSG | 137 | 47.9 | 16,490 |
| Design | 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS 7 spd DSG | 137 | 47.9 | 18,895 |
| Design | 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS 6 spd manual | 153 | 42.8 | 19,470 |
| Sport | 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS 6 spd manual | 153 | 42.8 | 21,220 |