German auto maker Volkswagen on its Indian Twitter handle confirmed the arrival of its new Beetle on 9 November. Ahead of the launch, which is scheduled before the end of this year, the brochure of the India-spec model has been leaked online.
The new Volkswagen Beetle will be in its third generation. The 'people's car' in its latest avatar will feature bi-xenon headlamps, front fog lamps, electrically foldable ORVMs, rear spoiler and 16-inch alloy wheels. The car poses slightly angular in design as opposed to the rounded edges of the previous models.
The interior is spruced up with dual-zone air conditioning system, multi-function display, audio system with eight speakers, panaromic sunroof, auto dimming rear view mirror and cruse control. The Beetle will also feature leather upholstery and heated front seats.
The car will be powered by in-line four cylinder 1395cc TSI petrol engine developing 148bhp and 250Nm of torque mated seven speed DSG transmissions. The car comes with 0-100kmph time of 8.7 seconds and top speed of 203kmph.
The Volkswagen Beetle, which was on sale in India, was discontinued owing to the poor demand. Now when the iconic Beetle is getting ready for a re-launch in India, it would be interesting to see how the company will price its new offering. The estimated price is Rs 30 lakh.
To be pitted against rivals MINI Cooper S, Mercedes A-Class Fiat Abarth Punto, and BMW 1-Series, the new Volkswagen Beetle will be brought to India as Completely Built Unit (CBU). Emerging reports also indicate the company has already imported over 40 units of the new Beetle ahead of the launch.
