hope VW produces a more serious beetle that could compete with the mini and pays better respect to the design of the original beetle. The current beetle always looked like it belongs in a cartoon. The next-generation Volkswagen Beetle concept will be introduced at the Los Angeles auto show in November, according to Autocar. Citing unidentified sources, the magazine claims the car will get a renewed look, and should feature more inspired engine choices as it is prepped for a 2011 market release.
A 2.0-liter engine producing 210 bhp (213 PS, 157 kW) could be seen on the car, more powerful than any engine currently sold on the vehicle. Also expected are 1.4-liter 160 bhp (162 PS, 119 kW) and 1.2-liter 105 bhp (106 PS, 78 kW) petrol engines. Diesel offerings could include 2.0-liter 140 bhp (142 PS, 104 kW) and 1.6-liter 105 bhp (106 PS, 78 kW) units. Customers in the US might get the chance to purchase the car with a five-cylinder 2.5-liter model cranking out 170 bhp (172 PS, 127 kW).
The company is also toying with the idea of producing a hybrid version of the car.
Autocar says the vehicle will have a wider stance and longer wheelbase as it will be produced at the same plant, and on the same architecture, as the VW Jetta. The Beetle is expected to get a MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear suspension, though a multi-link rear is also possible.
The (now ex) New Beetle is just fine vehicle, maybe need some exterior restyling, but the whole concept works just fine. Especially interior, such a great fun to drive. My new Scirocco is boring, compared with NB. I have 1960 Beetle, too.
