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2012 Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback
Summary
Provided by NADAguides.com
Completely redesigned for 2012, the Volkswagen Beetle is a two door subcompact hatchback with seating for four. The Beetle is available with two different engine options; a standard 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine (170 hp/177 lb-ft of torque) and an optional turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine (200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options consist of a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and 6-speed DSG� automatic. Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated range of 21 mpg city to 31 mpg highway, depending on engine and transmission selection. Features include bi-xenon, 19-inch alloy heritage wheels, push-button start, sport steering wheel, ambient lighting, sport suspension, touchscreen navigation, premium audio, and hands-free phone capabilities. Safety is comprised of four airbags with integrated side curtain protection, anti-lock braking, intelligent crash response, and electronic stability control. The Beetle is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
Benefits of Driving a 2012 Volkswagen Beetle Hatchback
With a new, more aggressive design, more spacious interior, plus a pair of tried and true powerplants, the 2012 Volkswagen offers a fresh new alternative for buyers shopping around for a cool compact. Against the likes of the MINI Cooper and Fiat 500, the Beetle holds its own, with a base price just under the MINI, and more practical usability than that of the diminutive FIAT's.
What's new for 2012?
The popular Volkswagen Beetle is completely redesigned for 2012. Most noticeable is the exterior restyle, which incorporates a lower, flatter roofline and more steeply raked windshield. The look is more reminiscent of the very first Beetle of 1938. The car is four inches wider and six inches longer than its predecessor. Also different is the name: the 'New' has been dropped from this Beetle's moniker. Inside is a wealth of metal-look plastic and chrome, and the dashboard is much narrower than before, which means an increase in interior cabin space. The charming bud vase is no longer present.
Model Strengths
- More aggressive styling
- more practical and spacious interior
- sporty turbo performance
- plenty of in-cabin entertainment options
Model Review
Volkswagen went way back to the drawing board with its reimagining of the 2012 Beetle. The new Beetle--which is not to be called a 'New Beetle'--draws its inspiration from the original car of 1938, but with a lower, flatter roofline. This gives the car a more aggressive stance. Overall dimensions have grown, which translates to more interior room for passengers. Those passengers get a combination of retro simplicity in the gauge layout, elegance in the quality of cabin materials and high-tech in the available gizmos and gadgets.
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