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The all-new Volkswagen Beetle (read our review here)is on sale in Australia, marking the 60th anniversary since the original Beetle landed in Australia, then, simply known as ‘the Volkswagen’
The new Beetle is the third-generation since it re-entered the market in 2000. For 2013, Volkswagen has simplified the line-up, with just one engine and two transmission options. The Mexican-built retro-hatch is priced from $29,990 to $32,490.
Under the curvaceous bonnet lives the familiar twin-charged 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine from the Volkswagen Golf. It generates 118kW of power and 240Nm of torque. It returns 6.8L/100km when paired with the six-speed manual, and 6.4L/100km when mated with the optional seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic. 0-100km/h takes 8.3 seconds with either transmission.
The new Volkswagen Beetle sits on the PQ35 platform which underpins the outgoing Mk6 Golf. It measures 4,278mm long, 1,808mm wide, 1,477mm tall and has a 2,524mm wheelbase. This makes it 149mm longer, 87mm wider and 21mm lower than the previous model. There is also 8mm extra in the wheelbase. With better packaging, an extra 101 litres of boot space has also been liberated.
The retro-theme of the exterior carries into the interior with an eye-catching body-coloured dashboard and sporty flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Standard features are extensive and include cruise control, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, auto headlights and wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror, 8-speaker sound system with 6.5” touchscreen, 17” alloy wheels, front fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, black diffuser with twin chrome tailpipes and a rear spoiler.
On the safety front, the 5-Star ANCAP rated Beetle boosts four airbags (dual front and sides) and electronic stability control, amongst others.
Volkswagen Australia has also started bundling options together, such as the $2,700 Technology Package that consist of bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED rear number plate light, electric folding mirrors, push-button start and a low tyre pressure indicator.
The $1,800 Sport Package adds 18” Twister alloys, dark tinted windows, steering wheel paddle shifters (DSG only) and boost pressure, oil temperature and stopwatch gauges on the dashboard.
Other standalone options include satellite navigation ($2,500), straight black or black and red leather seats ($3,500) and panoramic sunroof ($1,700).
A limited edition (200 units) Beetle Fender Edition will also join the line-up in May, with a $34,490 price tag. They will be based on the DSG model and features a Fender premium audio system with 8-speakers and a subwoofer and exclusive Deep Black pearl-effect paint.
The Fender Edition will also take the retro-look up another level with 18” Disc alloy wheels and chrome mirror covers. It features bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, a ‘Sunburst’ guitar-inspired dashboard, brown stitching, cloth/leatherette upholstery and three-colour ambience lighting
The new Volkswagen Beetle will also be the second vehicle in Volkswagen Australia’s line-up to score capped-price servicing. The maximum cost of the first six services (which covers 90,000km or six years) is $2623, with the price of individual services ranging from $375 to $638.
2013 Volkswagen Bettle recommended retail price, excluding on-road costs:
Beetle 6-speed manual – $29,990
Beetle 7-speed DSG – $32,490
Beetle Fender Edition 7-speed DSG – $34,490
