VW launching Beetle Dune, Beetle Denim models for 2016
A pair of throwback Beetles will be available at Volkswagen dealerships in 2016, joining the Beetle Classic in a growing retro lineup.
Whereas Volkswagen set out to recapture the original Bug's glory with the Beetle Classic, the Beetle Dune and Denim models take the car in two very distinct directions.
- Also: 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Dune: Keeping it Fresh
- Also: 2017 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible: Topless for Less
Inspired by Baja Bugs of the late 1960s, the Beetle Dune more aggressive exterior styling, including new bumpers and side moldings, and a raised ride height befitting of the name.
The Dune's rides 10 millimetres higher than the rest of the Beetle pack, while its track is 15 millimetres wider, capped with pronounced black wheel arches.
The new front bumper features a large grille and skid plate, while the Beetle Dune sits on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.
Both doors feature 'Dune' graphics.
Inside, the Beetle Dune's seats feature contrasting orange stitching, while the centre stack boasts a 6.3-inch touchscreen that runs the latest generation MIB II infotainment system, which allows integration of iPhone and Android devices through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, respectively.
A rearview camera is standard equipment, while a power sunroof and push-button start are part of an optional Technology package.
The Beetle Dune will be available in three exterior colours: Sandstorm Yellow; Pure White; or Deep Black Pearl.
Yellow cars feature body-colour upper door trims and dashpads, white and black cars have black door and dashpad trim.
Available in both coupe and convertible models, the Beetle Dune will be equipped with a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission at launch.
Beetle Denim
Also new for 2016 is the Beetle Denim, a car inspired by the Beetle Jeans model of the 1970s.
Available as a convertible-only special edition, the Beetle Denim will be sold in Pure White or Stonewashed Blue, with a Dark Blue convertible top made of a textured fabric that looks like denim.
The car features blue demin-colour cloth seating, a light-blue-and-silver dashpad, and jeans-inspired seat pockets with small Beetle tabs in red.
Like the Dune, the Beetle Denim features Volkswagen's new MIB II infotainment system, though, as a so-called "value model," it runs through a smaller five-inch touchscreen, and does not feature Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The Beelte Denim will also be driven by a combination of Volkswagen's 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and six-speed automatic transmission.
Production of the Beetle Denim will be limited to 2,000 units.
Pricing for both new models will be announced at a later date.
