Prev Next
1 of 9

2012 Volkswagen Beetle (photos)

After more than 10 years in its current incarnation, the Volkswagen Beetle is finally getting an update, with new styling, engine choices, and cabin tech. Updates to the Beetle reflect similar changes in the new Jetta, showing standardization of production for its models.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
The original Beetle models had air-cooled engines in the rear, so no need for a front grille and radiator. Volkswagen moved the engine to the front, along with the driven wheels, for the 1998 version, and the 2012 update keeps this layout. Although it now sports a radiator, Volkswagen puts the air intake below the bumper in the new Beetle to preserve the original styling.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
The most radical change is the roofline, which looks more like that in the very first Beetle models. The roof is less rounded, which makes for better headroom in back. This turbo model also shows a side-step accent, which makes that feature look more pronounced.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
Volkswagen will offer three engines for the Beetle, a turbocharged 2-liter four cylinder making 200 horsepower, a 2.5-liter five cylinder making 170 horsepower, and a diesel 2-liter four cylinder, with an output of 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The diesel version rings in 33 mpg, according to Volkswagen. The rear spoiler on the model shown is unique to the turbo version.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
Unlike the original Beetle, the current version has a large hatchback, courtesy of moving the engine to the front. Volkswagen already has a two-door hatchback with the Golf, but the Beetle earns its place in the lineup with style points.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
This turbo version gets two-tone, manually adjustable seats. The interior uses good-quality materials for an economy car, a general trend in the industry.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
The controls on the steering-wheel spokes are similar to those in the new Jetta. Volkswagen will make a flash-based navigation system available in the Beetle, along with two different audio options. The top audio system will be Fender-branded, with a 400-watt amp and subwoofer.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
Three transmissions are available for the Beetle, a five-speed manual, six-speed automatic, and six-speed DSG automated manual. The DSG is the automatic option for the turbo and diesel versions of the Beetle.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
Gauges for oil temp, battery, and turbo boost sit at the top of the dashboard. Along with the touch-screen navigation system in the center of the dashboard, Volkswagen includes a display in the instrument cluster for route guidance and trip information.

Back to 2011 New York auto show.

Updated:
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
Latest Galleries See all

REVIEW

Meet the drop-resistant Moto Z2 Force

The Moto Z2 Force is really thin, with a fast processor and great battery life. It can survive drops without shattering.

Latest From Roadshow

2017 Tokyo Motor Show preview: A taste of the wacky, wonderful future

World's first panoramic sunroof airbag ready to deploy

Consumer Reports' survey marks Tesla Model X 'least reliable'

Lyft gets $1B investment, led by Alphabet

VW to demonstrate its electric future in 2018 Pikes Peak race