What's the news?
A full 14 years after the original 2000 Beetle Dune Concept, we're now getting a sneak peek of the revitalised 2014 concept. Starting next week (Jan 13), the North American International Auto Show kicks off with the world premiere of the Beetle Dune Concept, which is as near as makes no difference, production-ready and Volkswagen will gauge reaction in one of its biggest markets - America. We shouldn't forget it was America itself that took the original Beetle to its hearts in the sixties.
Exterior
Certainly, the Dune Concept is unmistakably a Beetle. Advance images show a cross-vehicle with its body raised by two inches and bigger wheels (19-inch in diameter as suggested by Volkswagen). The off-road looks are complemented by a cosmetic front skid plate just under the lower radiator. To hint at the car's off-road capability, a roof rack is added for skis (or maybe surf boards). Perfect then, for Aspen or South Beach.
Mechanicals
The show car uses a 210hp, turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a six-speed dual clutch automatic and front-wheel drive. To add traction, Volkswagen uses an XDS electronic 'differential'. By eschewing the original 2000 Dune concept's mechanicals, which sported a 2.3-litre engine with 4Motion and air suspension, the 2014 Dune Concept makes it more likely to get a production green light.
Anything else?
It is still a concept, mind, so there's no suggestion of prices. However, next week's public reaction, despite Detroit being in the grip of freezing temperatures, should prove useful for Volkswagen by showing Dune Concept to a receptive American audience.