What's the news?
Volkswagen has updated the Beetle and the refreshed model is on sale in Ireland now. Outside, the changes are pretty subtle - there are some new colour options, plus tinted indicator lenses and, for the R-Line (which replaces the old Beetle Sport) there are new bumpers with extra vents and slots.
Inside, the dash and instrument pack have been updated, and there are new trim options including an R-Line package, which looks sportier and adds lots of stitched and stamped R-Line logos everywhere, as well as adding a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel.
The engine lineup stays pretty much the same as before, kicking off with the 105hp 1.2 TSI petrol turbo, and the 1.4 TSI 150hp petrol turbo. There are two diesel engines. Well, really one diesel engine in two states of tune - a 2.0-litre TDI with either 110hp or 150hp. Six-speed manual and six-or-seven-speed DSG gearboxes are available across the range.
There are now three trim lines - Beetle, Beetle Design and R-Line. As a summer promotion, Volkswagen is offering the €162 Innovation Pack, which includes tinted rear windows, Composition Media and App Connect. On the Design model, €162 gets you a panoramic sunroof, tinted rear windows, Beetle decals, park distance control and App Connect. And on the R-Line, the €162 Innovation Pack adds the panoramic sunroof, 18-inch Twister alloy wheels, Discover media navigation system, Beetle decals and a rear view camera.
Prices start at €22,490 for the Beetle 105bhp 1.2-litre TSI and €25,080 for the Beetle 110bhp 2.0-litre TDI.