Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet

From an exterior design standpoint the new Beetle does impress, and from the first glance you’re aware that more time and thought has gone into perfecting its appearance. Step inside and you’re confronted by an unusually high dashboard that has been styled to replicate that of the original Beetle, complete with an old fashioned glovebox compartment in the fascia. There are currently four engine choices. The range starts with the 1.2-litre TSI that is shared with the various VAG group superminis. In the Beetle, it offers 104bhp, 47.9mpg and 126g/km. Next in the petrol line-up is the 'Twincharger' 1.4-litre TSI. Combining both a turbo and a supercharger produces 148bhp, with economy and emissions rated at 42.8mpg combined and 132g/km respectively. Overall, the Twincharger unit is a hard engine to fault. It’s economical and revs freely and progressively to its post-6000rpm redline. It doesn’t feel particularly punchy, but then with an 8.3sec 0-62mph time, few would expect it to be.

A diesel addition has been recently introduced to the Beetle range with the familiar 2.0-litre TDI engine, which is available in two outputs - 108bhp and 148bhp. When we tested it with the optional DSG twin-clutch transmission (£1595), we found the diesel engine to be as sprightly and free-revving as in other installations. Unfortunately, it is not as efficient as when installed in the Golf, the diesel's 52.3mpg and 140g/km now looking slightly behind the times. There is also a cabriolet Beetle range which uses the same set of engines as the normal 3-door bug. The Beetle does hang on well in corners. Grip is vastly improved over the old model, a result that can be attributed not only to the widened tracks but a decision to provide the new model with larger wheels and tyres boasting greater contact area. In this respect, Volkswagen’s claims of added sportiness are well warranted.

There are four trim levels to choose from for both the Beetle and the Cabriolet - Beetle/Cabriolet, Design, R-Line and a rugged Dune trim. Opt for the entry-level and the Beetle comes with 16in steel wheels, halogen headlights, electric front windows, hill-hold assist and a post-collision braking system. Inside there is semi-automatic climate control and a 6.5in touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, USB port and DAB radio. Upgrade to the Design trim and it comes with 17in alloys, front foglights and rear spoiler, while the R-Line trim adds more sporty details including 18in alloys, twin-pipe exhaust system, dual-zone climate control, cruise control and parking sensors. The range-topping and rugged Dune Beetles get numerous exterior changes including a styling pack, rear diffuser, wheel arch protection and its own dedicated alloy wheels.

Source: autocar.co.uk