Things to Love about the 2012 Volkswagon Beetle
When Volkswagen confirmed that the iconic Beetle would soldier on after 2010, countless numbers of Bug lovers breathed a collective sigh of relief. The original air-cooled Beetle was dropped from the US lineup way back in 1979. For those old enough to remember, it seemed as though an automotive legend was dead and buried. A long 19 years would pass before this beloved model would return to VW dealerships, but at last, in 1998, a new and vastly-improved Beetle had arrived to showrooms. Since this model served as a significant departure from the original Beetles that sold from 1950-1979, it would be known as the New Beetle.
And new it was. The engine was now located in the front, and even had a radiator. Translation? Heat! The drivetrain was also moved to the front. Other amenities the old Bug owner could only dream of were now standard. In short, a modern-day version that was light-years ahead of its predecessor but still unmistakably recognized as a Beetle had been born.
For the first couple of years, the New Beetle sold remarkably well, but by 2001, sales began to decline, and eventually stabilized to around 30,000 units annually in the US until the end of the 2000s, when they dropped to around 17,000. In 2010, VW announced that this model would be replaced. Bug lovers didn't know what to think. Would what many believed to be the defining symbol of Volkswagen be killed again as it was in 1979, or did this mean a redesigned model was forthcoming? Nobody knew for sure, and the fact that the last batch of 2010 models were designated as "Final Editions" certainly didn't generate optimism that the Beetle would exist after that model year.
The anxiety ended in 2011 when VW finally made it official: The Beetle would live on, and afaceliftedversion would arrive in the fall as a 2012 model. First, the photos were released. As with any redesign with any make or model of car, some people loved what they saw while others hated it. However, seeing one in person is believing. In short, the 2012 Beetle is an awesome-looking car.
For starters, the "New Beetle" is no longer new, and the2012 modelis simply called the Beetle, just as in days of old. That's cool in itself.
Despite having a slightly wider and longer body, the 2012 Beetle looks more like the classic models from the 1960s. This was achieved by flattening the roofline and restyling the rear in a more downward slope. Admittedly, the taillights take some getting used to, as they don't look like any that have ever appeared on a Beetle, but they will grow on a true fan. After all, one must remember that this is what evolution is all about.
The 2012's interior is much more user-friendly than the outgoing models. The gigantic dash is gone in favor of a more conventional design. This in turn provides more room in the front passenger compartment. The car is also six inches longer than the previous model, which gives more headroom for rear seat passengers and a smoother overall ride. The dashboard itself is very retro-cool and matches the car's body color. Included is a radio design and a glovebox reminiscent of the classic Bugs of the 1950s and 1960s. The bud vase of the 1998-2010 model has disappeared from the 2012s, which is a plus for masculine drivers that were never thrilled about adorning them with flowers in the first place. And speaking ofmasculine,the 2012 Beetle is decidedly far more sporty and aggressive-looking as well.
Currently, available engines include the base 5-cylinder 2.5 liter that's been around since 2006 and a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. A diesel version will arrive for 2013. Rumor has it that the base 2.5 will be replaced with a 1.8 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder in the near future. Turbo models come with an integrated rear spoiler, different interior options, and bigger wheels.Transmissions include a 5-speed manual on the base models and either a 6-speed manual or DSG automatic on the turbos. A Fender audio system and satellite navigation is also available. Sunroofs are currently on backorder, but should be arriving in the next few months.
There aren't very many brand new Beetles out on the road yet, but by this summer, they should certainly be noticed. There has never been a problem with mistaking a Beetle for any other car out there, and the 2012 model continues this tradition.
