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The iconic Volkswagen Beetle powers up for 2014 (pictures)

Volkswagen gives the Beetle and R-Line trim for the 2014 model year, with a 2-liter turbocharged engine making 210 horsepower.

Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Wayne Cunningham
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The version of the Beetle launched in 2011 comes with a flatter roof than previous models. New for 2014 is the R-Line, a trim level that features a more powerful engine.

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Electric power steering helps save fuel, and is tuned for heft and a natural feel.

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The Beetle R-Line's suspension proved a bit soft for serious canyon carving.

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The 2-liter four-cylinder engine uses direct injection and a turbocharger to make 210 horsepower.

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These 19-inch wheels come as part of the top option package.

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As a styling cue, the new Beetle references the original model's running boards.

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This big spoiler is part of the R-Line trim.

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Sport seats are comfortable, well-bolstered, and include manual height adjustment.

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Rear buckets are designed for two passengers.

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Hard plastics cover the dashboard, lessening the appearance of cabin quality.

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An R logo graces the steering wheel.

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The speedometer dominates the instrument cluster, while the tachometer sits off to the side, which isn't exactly a sport-focused arrangement.

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This gauge pod includes a lap timer and shows turbo boost.

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Buyers can choose this six-speed manual or six-speed automated manual.

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Three pedals, with what Volkswagen calls "aluminum-look" covers, come with the Beetle R-Line.

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The Fender audio system comes as part of the Sun and Sound, or the Sun, Sound, and Nav packages.

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The glove box includes upper and lower compartments.

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This navigation system works fine, but uses a small screen and offers few features.

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Bluetooth audio streaming does not show album art, nor does it let you choose music.

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Volkswagen includes a Lightning adapter for its proprietary media device connector.

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With an iPhone plugged into the media connector, you can browse a music library.

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The music playback screen for an iPhone includes song and artist information.

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