Can VW’s New Beetle finally dispose of its “chick car” reputation, we find out.
What is it? This is the all new beefier Volkswagen Beetle; powered by the 1.4TSI it is currently the most powerful petrol “bug” around.
Who is it aimed at? It seems men are trying to wrestle the VW Beetle back from our eager clutches. While the last model was adorned with flowers and had more curves than a Monte Carlo racetrack in its latest incarnation it is more angular, masculine and butch so generally more appealing to those with y-chromosomes.
Styling? Wider than the car it replaces and with a much steeper incline it still remains true to the original; from the bonnet to the boot it is unmistakably a Beetle.
Under the Bonnet? Our test car was powered by the 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine. With 160 horses under the bonnet it sprints from 0- 100 km in an impressive 8.3 seconds.
What’s it like inside? The interior have also been revised and is now in line with the other models sold under the VW brand. Space in the front is good with ample head and legroom but rear seat occupants don’t fare so well. As with most coupes accessing the rear is not the easiest but once in, the bucket seats, are little consolation for the limited headroom imposed by the sloping roofline. Luggage space however is deceptively decent, as proved by an impromptu visit to Ikea.
On the Road? On the road the Beetle drives well, ride and handling are all good but around town the steering feels heavy and the Golf is a better buy if sharp-handling is on your wish list.
And Safety? The Beetle scored well in Euro NCAP’s crash test gaining the maximum five stars. In addition to the safety “must-have” items there are also a raft of electronic systems to increase safety including electronic stability control, curtain air bags and ASB.
Options? The three Beetle trim lines are Comfortline, Highline and Sportline. Engine options include two petrol 1.2 and 1.4 litre engines and two diesels 1.6 and 2.0 litre. All are available with a DSG double-clutch (automatic) gearbox.
How about Fuel Economy? Average fuel consumption is reasonably good at 6.6 litres per 100kms. CO2 emissions of 153g/km grams per kilometres means a band C rating for tax so an annual motor tax bill of €330.
Okay so the verdict? It’s never easy to reinterpret an iconic car but with a more stylish and brawny exterior the VW designers have successful achieved just that. The new Beetle is beautiful to look at both inside out but after a week behind the wheel we are struggling to recommend buying it over the Golf. While you may not get as many envious and admiring looks in the Golf, even its previous Mark VI form, it does most things a whole lot better than the Beetle.
Why you’ll buy one: Unique styling; Retro interior; Funky alternative
Why you won’t: Not as much fun as it looks
Rivals
Mini Cooper S Clubman €27,470;
Citroën DS4 1.6 HDi 160bhp €28,995
Volkswagen Beetle Sport 1.4 TSI
Engine: 1390cc, 4cyl, twin-charged;putting out 118kW(160bhp) and 250Nm of torque between 1,500 – 4,500rpm
Max speed: 208km/h
0-100km/h: 8.3 seconds
Emissions (motor tax): 153 g/km (€330)
Starting price: €20,195
Model price range: €20,195– €29,995 (Test Car €27,694*)
No of Doors: 3
Euro NCAP: 5 stars
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 6.6 litres
Boot Capacity Seats up (seats down): 310Litres (905)
Car Seats: 2 isofix fittings and easy to install
Length: 4278mm
Width: 1808mm
Height: 1486mm
Wheelbase: 2537mm
*Optional extras included Radio “RCD 510” Touchscreen w/mp3, cd & multimedia aux in Bluetooth connectivity, “Beetle” nameplate on tailgate
For more information check out Volkswagen.ie or the VW Ireland Facebook page.
5th December, 2012