The question is to kaeferfach or not to kaeferfach as we learn pricing and more on Volkswagens Black Beetle
One for the money
Earlier today, Volkswagen of America announced the new car prices of its third-generation “people’s car” along with additional model and equipment information.
For 2012, the base 2.5L 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have a starting MSRP of $18,995, a $305 increase over the 2010 model. In addition to offering a 10 percent increase over the previous iteration of VW’s 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, it also boasts an increase in horsepower – 170 versus 150.
When outfitted with Wolfsburg’s five-speed manual, VW estimates its fuel economy at 22 city and 31 highway, while a six-speed automatic offers up matching city numbers with highway fuel economy dropping to 29.
Standard features include “customizable” 17-inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel, split folding rear seat and an RCD 310 eight-speaker audio system with aux-in for portable audio players. “Desirable” options (according to veedub) include Bluetooth, vinyl seating, heated front seats, ambient interior lighting, iPod connectivity and, last but not least, a “kaeferfach” (beetle times) additional glovebox which is similar to that of the original Beetle (Ist das nicht ein kaeferfach? Ja, das ist ein kaeferfach!)
2.0 for the road
New car dealer prices for the uplevel 2.0L TSI will start at $23,995. This one, if you haven’t already surmised, comes with Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo that produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb.-ft. of torque – along with larger brakes and red calipers to bring it all to a halt. EPA numbers for this one are 30 mpg highway and 22 mpg city. Since VW lists just one set of numbers, we’re assuming they’re the same for both the standard six-speed manual transmission as well as the optional DSG dual-clutch automatic.
Additional standard equipment includes the aforementioned Bluetooth, iPod connectivity and ambient lighting, 18-inch alloys wheels and pedals, rear spoiler, fog lights, three additional dashboard gauges, sport seating surfaces and, drum roll please, a “kaeferfach” additional glovebox.
Options for both will include a choice of two audio systems. The first consists of a CD changer, SD card interface and touchscreen, while the second is a Fender Premium Audio System. In addition, a transparent, panoramic tilt and slide glass sunroof “80 percent longer” that on the previous gen will be available on some trim lines. VW also plans on offering the availability of 19-inch wheels, performance handling packages, sports seats, keyless entry with push-button start, leather seating surfaces and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights on some models.
Three to get ready
Sometime in 2012, VW also plans on bringing a TDI-powered Beetle to its new car dealers that will feature the company’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel with 140 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque, making it, along with base 2.5L, one of two 30 mpg cars in the lineup.
Four to go?
Although specifics were not mentioned, VW did allude to the fact that the 2012 New Beetle will be available in three trim levels. It was, however, unclear as to whether or not the third trim will be the TDI or if the company plans on slotting a car between the 2.5L and 2.0 turbo models.
