As we’ve told you earlier that the new generation of the Volkswagen Beetle is all set to hit Indian shores in December and now the company has teased the new model coming to India on its website. Volkswagen says it harks back to the dune buggies of the 1960s and 1970s – best known as Baja Bugs, for their involvement in the famous Mexican off-road rally.
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The slightly elevated ride also brings with it unique front and rear bumpers, 18-inch alloy wheels and bespoke Sandstorm Yellow metallic paintwork with “Dune” side decals. Chunky retro wheelarch extensions widen the body by 14mm, while a wider track also features (7mm front, 6mm rear).
Yet despite the off-roader inspired design touches, the new model will be sold exclusively with front-wheel drive, owing to the lack of a four-wheel drive option for the Beetle, which is produced at Volkswagen’s Puebla plant in Mexico.
The Dune’s exterior is heavily modified from a standard Beetle.
Aluminum skid plates help give the Beetle Dune a more aggressive look, even if the ground clearance is only up by less than half an inch.
Inside the cabin, the VW Beetle gets leather seats, glovebox with tray, Ambience lighting, Scuff plate, leather wrapped multi-functional steering wheel with controls for paddle shifters, MFD, Radio and telephone, leather handbrake lever handle and gearshift knob, folding grab handles and 2 front reading lights. White and black Dunes will make do with door and dash trim in black.
Standard tech on the Dune includes VW’s new MIB II Composition Color touchscreen infotainment system, USB ports, a backup camera and – a first for any Beetle – LED taillights and parking sensors. A Technology Package will also be available, which adds Climatronic® dual-zone automatic climate control, the award-winning Fender® Premium Audio System, KESSY® keyless access with push-button start, and a tilt-and-slide sunroof.
The drivetrain remains the same as every other gas-powered Beetle. Both a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic will be available.
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Volkswagen has revealed the definitive production version of the Beetle Dune in both coupe and cabriolet bodystyles, with the vehicle making its debut at the LA motor show. The Dune coupe will go on sale in the first quarter of 2016, while the Dune Convertible will arrive in showrooms in the third quarter of the year.
