2012 Volkswagen Beetle Officially Revealed

We don’t think that Ferdinand Porsche ever imagined that the car he helped create and would later become known as the Beetle would end up being a fashion conscious little coupe in the 21st century. Yet here it is, in the flesh and in full detail, as Volkswagen has released the full info and an image gallery for the car.

First off, the next-gen Beetle drops the ‘New’ it used to have attached to its name, but comes with the expected design upgrade that will keep its retro-looking backside looking good for today’s customers. The main change is the flatter look and more upright rear of the car - both features we like, as they make it look less fussy and more modern. The car is also a lot wider and longer than its predecessor, adding 3.3 inches (8.4 cm) and 6 inches (15.2 cm) respectively.

"The Beetle is now characterized by a clean, self-confident and dominant sportiness. The car not only has a lower profile; it is also substantially wider, the front bonnet is longer, the front windscreen is shifted further back and has a much steeper incline. All of this creates a new dynamism," explains Klaus Bischoff.

The new Volkswagen will be available worldwide in the three equipment lines Beetle, Design and Sport. Unique features will include Bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights, both offered for the first time on a Beetle, as is the Keyless Access locking and engine starting system.

Engine options will include the 2.0 liter TFSI engine and the 2.0 liter TDI diesel in both European and North American spec variants. These can be mated to either a speed manual and 6 speed DSG automatic, while the XDS differential will ensure the most powerful versions have enough traction in a tricky corner.