When the Volkswagen New Beetle was launched in 1997, I was only a young teenager and thought the car was interesting but never interested in it. As I grew older, I realized just how non-masculine the vehicle looked. Then it was updated in 2011 as the 2012 model and the name reverted back to Volkswagen Beetle. This time around, the design had improved significantly and it was tolerable to look at. Having seen the quirky Mini Cooper and it’s wide range of models, Volkswagen wants to jump on the band wagon and turn the Beetle name into a sub-brand of its own.
Volkswagen has confirmed that they are currently working on various new Beetle models including a modern take on the legendary VW Microbus which will be based on the Beetle platform. But some of these models that are planned are still some time away from launch such as the Volkswagen Bulli which won’t arrive until 2019 when the new-generation of the Beetle is revealed.
The five passenger VW Bulli will be taller and longer than the Beetle and many of the parts will be sourced from vehicles such as the Touran and Golf Sportsvan. The Volkswagen Bulli will be available with the 4Motion all-wheel drive as well as VW’s newly developed supercharged three-cylinder engine. There is also a possibility of offering an all-electric model.
Volkswagen is also working on a more sporty Beetle Coupe borrowing design cues from the E-Bugster concept and the Beetle Dune. The Beetle Coupe is expected to feature narrow windows, a high belt line, and a distinctive rooftop. Power will come from a 300 horsepower petrol engine in its sportiest model and will feature an all-wheel drive system. The VW Beetle could also be the inspiration for an SUV version featuring off-road styling and higher ground clearance. It will be available with an all-wheel drive system as well as a hybrid model.
Although I’m not a huge fan of the VW Beetle, the company should take advantage of its success and cult following by expanding the Beetle model. It’s been pretty successful for the Cooper in most cases so why not the Beetle as well?
