The Volkswagen Beetle is among the models that have shaped the history of car designs. The first Beetle, known as the air-cooled Beetle was produced from the year 1938 to the year 2003 which summed up to a production period of fifty-five years. The new Beetle, which has more contemporary water-cooled power but has a design based on the original Bug, emerged in 1998 to keep the Beetle flame alive. Now Volkswagen is extending the model’s tradition with Beetle Dune, an Off-roader version planned for production in 2016. It will be interesting to observe VW returning to the Baja Bug styling that one saw on the older modded Beetles. This new Dune model looks set to go on a rampage across the dusty trails in sheer glamour!
Dune, A More Capable Beetle
The Beetle Dune does not stand out from its standard Beetle sibling in terms of body style but a raised suspension provides more ground clearance, fender flares extend to 18-inch alloy wheels, and beefier front and rear bumpers make it look a tad more rugged. This modern Bug certainly looks the part of an off-roader, but does it have the necessary package to back up those terrific looks? Powering it is the same 1.8-liter TSI turbocharged four-cylinder as those used in other Beetle variants, that churns out a respectable 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. That may not be extreme power but should be good enough for some fun in the dust. For better performance off-road, Volkswagen is also installing the Dune model with an additional six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with improved shifting. I am not looking for steep rock climbing capabilities here but the Dune appears it will be able to tackle gravel paths and other milder trails for some weekend warrior jaunts.
The Beetle Dune, thus, has some nice exterior enhancements from the standard Beetles but they really set it apart. New suspension was lifted and fenders are wider, which also contributes to the overall more robust appearance; furthermore, new bumpers are more suitable for light off-road use. Perhaps, the best part that I can mention is the gigantic rear spoiler that gives the impression of the car being fun and adventurous at the same time. The rear spoiler, matched with the codigo-colored front air intake grille and orange stripes running down the side of the car, is ideal for low cruising around the city or by the coast. The Dune’s adventurous styling and customization from the factory will go a long way towards making this special Bug appeal to those hordes of enthusiasts who are into the outdoors. I can just picture the car, loaded with surfboards or mountain bikes, ready for a weekend getaway with the Dune.
A Truly Special Beetle
The Volkswagen Beetle Dune model that has started production for the 2016 model fully embodies the fun and freedom concept on which the Bug is founded. While today’s New Beetle may share the name and many nods to the legend, this new Dune seems to have the Bug’s free-spirited fun-in-the-sun ethos a bit more accurately pegged. Perhaps it is not a hardcore Jeep but every ounce of extra suspension travel and the outdoorsy tweaks make the Dune perfect for exciting jamborees in the sand. I always enjoy watching Volkswagen build rare, special models such as this one. The Beetle Dune should be part of the iconic Bug’s story as the 60s Baja Bugs, and 70s surf Beetles prove the adventures and the individuality the little Bug offers. This new Dune also successfully balances the Beetle’s heritage while at the same time bringing the car and its design into a new era.
You can watch the video below.
