Beetlemania hits the Big Apple

Four new versions of the legendary Beetle have been unveiled at the New York Motor Show.

The concepts comprise of two coupes and two cabriolets – the Beetle Cabriolet Denim, Beetle Wave convertible, Beetle Pink Edition and the R-Line Concept.

The Beetle Cabriolet Denim concept has a ‘Stonewashed Blue Metallic’ body colour with a dark blue soft-top featuring a special fabric texture – a nod to the world’s most popular trousers – jeans. The first ‘Jeans Bug’ made its debut in the mid-1970s, adopting the denim theme. In the 1980s and 1990s, other ‘jeans’ special Beetle models followed.

The Beetle Wave concept is striking ‘Habanero Orange Metallic’ which reflects the American spirit on the East and West coast beaches. The Wave’s interior includes fabric patterns from the 1950s and 60s, plus surfboard-style wood features.

The Beetle Pink Edition, erm, largely pink. Outside it’s finished in ‘Fuschine Metallic’, inside there are contrasting elements in black, chrome and aluminium.

Finally, the sporty R-Line Concept is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 217bhp. Painted in ‘Oryx White Pearl Effect’, it features independent bumpers and wrap-around body panelling in high-gloss black, a black diffuser and a large rear spoiler, plus sport bucket seats and leather-carbon look highlights inside.

None of the concepts are officially confirmed for production, but they give a hint to future Beetles. We suspect the public reaction will be favourable!