FiestaST
Honorary Master
Saw this immaculate Classic Beetle at the show yesterday
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2017 VW Beetle (#ByeByeBeetle)
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FiestaST
Honorary Master
VW SA fully restores the oldest Beetle in the country
Volkswagen SA employees have fully restored what is thought to be the oldest Beetle in South Africa, putting the prize Bug on display at the brand’s refurbished automotive museum in Uitenhage.
Back in 1971, VW SA set out to find the oldest Beetle in the country, eventually coming across this example with a split rear windshield, built on 14 September 1949 in Wolfsburg.
The owner, David Rubin of Middelburg, swapped his ageing Bug for a then-new 1300 model.
The 1949 Beetle – apparently named Jan – went on a bit of a roadshow around South Africa, before coming back home to rest at the Volkswagen factory in Uitenhage.
It was eventually put into storage, its condition deteriorating, before Jan Schiedek-Jacht, the head of product engineering at VW SA, came across it.
Schiedek-Jacht, who is a classic car enthusiast, offered to give the Beetle a new lease on life, with the help of various engineers from the product engineering division.
“The team, under the leadership of Jan Schiedek-Jacht, donated their spare time to fully restoring Jan and seven months later … when a pristine looking car! I am humbled by the dedication, passion and love of our automotive heritage that this team has shown during the restoration of the Jan the Beetle,” said Thomas Schaefer, chairman and managing director of VW SA.
The Beetle was restored to its original condition and colour, with most original components retained and repaired (although VW says some new parts were sourced from “special dealers” in South Africa, Germany and the United States).
The fully restored vehicle is now the pride of the VW’s AutoPavilion in Uitenhage.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/vw-sa-fully-restores-the-oldest-beetle-in-the-country/
Volkswagen SA employees have fully restored what is thought to be the oldest Beetle in South Africa, putting the prize Bug on display at the brand’s refurbished automotive museum in Uitenhage.
Back in 1971, VW SA set out to find the oldest Beetle in the country, eventually coming across this example with a split rear windshield, built on 14 September 1949 in Wolfsburg.
The owner, David Rubin of Middelburg, swapped his ageing Bug for a then-new 1300 model.
The 1949 Beetle – apparently named Jan – went on a bit of a roadshow around South Africa, before coming back home to rest at the Volkswagen factory in Uitenhage.
It was eventually put into storage, its condition deteriorating, before Jan Schiedek-Jacht, the head of product engineering at VW SA, came across it.
Schiedek-Jacht, who is a classic car enthusiast, offered to give the Beetle a new lease on life, with the help of various engineers from the product engineering division.
“The team, under the leadership of Jan Schiedek-Jacht, donated their spare time to fully restoring Jan and seven months later … when a pristine looking car! I am humbled by the dedication, passion and love of our automotive heritage that this team has shown during the restoration of the Jan the Beetle,” said Thomas Schaefer, chairman and managing director of VW SA.
The Beetle was restored to its original condition and colour, with most original components retained and repaired (although VW says some new parts were sourced from “special dealers” in South Africa, Germany and the United States).
The fully restored vehicle is now the pride of the VW’s AutoPavilion in Uitenhage.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/vw-sa-fully-restores-the-oldest-beetle-in-the-country/
ChrisThomas
Senior Member
I'm actually drooling, I need this car.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
SA's oldest VW Beetle restored to original glory
One of the stars of the newly revamped Volkswagen museum at Uitenhage is Jan, the oldest Beetle in South Africa.
This Type 1 Volkswagen was built on was built on Wednesday 14 September 1949 at the original Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg.
In 1971 VWSA and Wheels magazine ran a competition to find the oldest Beetle in South Africa; the winner was David Rubin of Middelburg, who was given a brand new 1300 Beetle as a straight swop for his car, which was then already 22 years old.
Jan was put on display around South Africa before being returned to the Volkswagen plant in Uitenhage, but the old Beetle wasn’t up to museum standard and couldn’t be displayed, so it was left in storage for years, quietly deteriorating further.
Then it crossed paths with another Jan - VWSA head of product engineering Jan Schiedek-Jacht, a classic car enthusiast of note, who offered to restore the historic split-window Beetle.
When his staff at product engineering heard about it, however, they offered to help and, for the next seven months, the team devoted their spare time to a full restoration of Jan the Beetle. They repaired and restored as many original components as they could, sourcing replacements for parts that couldn’t be saved from specialist suppliers in South Africa, Germany and the United States.
The result is the ‘looks just like new’ Beetle you see here, resplendent in its original colour and trim. The rebuild was finished just in time for the George Motor Show in February 2017, so Jan the Beetle’s ‘shakedown cruise’ was a 630km round trip to the Southern Cape - 67 years, four months and 10 days after rolling off the production line in Wolfsburg.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/sas-oldest-vw-beetle-restored-to-original-glory-8112711
One of the stars of the newly revamped Volkswagen museum at Uitenhage is Jan, the oldest Beetle in South Africa.
This Type 1 Volkswagen was built on was built on Wednesday 14 September 1949 at the original Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg.
In 1971 VWSA and Wheels magazine ran a competition to find the oldest Beetle in South Africa; the winner was David Rubin of Middelburg, who was given a brand new 1300 Beetle as a straight swop for his car, which was then already 22 years old.
Jan was put on display around South Africa before being returned to the Volkswagen plant in Uitenhage, but the old Beetle wasn’t up to museum standard and couldn’t be displayed, so it was left in storage for years, quietly deteriorating further.
Then it crossed paths with another Jan - VWSA head of product engineering Jan Schiedek-Jacht, a classic car enthusiast of note, who offered to restore the historic split-window Beetle.
When his staff at product engineering heard about it, however, they offered to help and, for the next seven months, the team devoted their spare time to a full restoration of Jan the Beetle. They repaired and restored as many original components as they could, sourcing replacements for parts that couldn’t be saved from specialist suppliers in South Africa, Germany and the United States.
The result is the ‘looks just like new’ Beetle you see here, resplendent in its original colour and trim. The rebuild was finished just in time for the George Motor Show in February 2017, so Jan the Beetle’s ‘shakedown cruise’ was a 630km round trip to the Southern Cape - 67 years, four months and 10 days after rolling off the production line in Wolfsburg.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/sas-oldest-vw-beetle-restored-to-original-glory-8112711
FiestaST
Honorary Master
VW Beetle: Old vs New Comparison
[video=youtube_share;wr6SXZB0ABo]https://youtu.be/wr6SXZB0ABo[/video]
[video=youtube_share;wr6SXZB0ABo]https://youtu.be/wr6SXZB0ABo[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Bug lives! Refreshed VW Beetle hits SA in R-Line trim…
The Volkswagen Beetle is not dead yet. In fact, the facelifted model has finally arrived in South Africa, with just a single, limited edition variant (for now, anyway) replacing the outgoing five-derivative-strong local line-up.
Officially named the Volkswagen Beetle 1,4TSI R-Line Limited Edition, the local arm of the German automaker says this updated Bug will be available in “limited numbers” from participating dealers. The price? Some R419 000.
Boasting the brand’s popular R-Line exterior styling kit (which in this application includes sportier bumpers, 18-inch “Ravenna” alloys, black wheelarch extensions and high-gloss black trim for the side-mirror caps), the Beetle is powered by VW’s familiar 1,4-litre turbocharged petrol unit, which sends 110 kW and 250 N.m to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Three colours (Pure White, Tornado Red and Reflex Silver) are on offer, while the standard comfort package includes equipment such as cruise control and “Climatronic” air conditioning. A 6,5-inch colour touchscreen is also part of the deal.
Optional extras include a technology package (parking sensors and a flat tyre indicator for R4 650), panoramic tilt/slide sunroof (R11 500), uprated Fender sound system (R9 800) and a black roof (R2 150).
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bug-lives-refreshed-vw-beetle-hits-sa-in-r-line-trim/
The Volkswagen Beetle is not dead yet. In fact, the facelifted model has finally arrived in South Africa, with just a single, limited edition variant (for now, anyway) replacing the outgoing five-derivative-strong local line-up.
Officially named the Volkswagen Beetle 1,4TSI R-Line Limited Edition, the local arm of the German automaker says this updated Bug will be available in “limited numbers” from participating dealers. The price? Some R419 000.
Boasting the brand’s popular R-Line exterior styling kit (which in this application includes sportier bumpers, 18-inch “Ravenna” alloys, black wheelarch extensions and high-gloss black trim for the side-mirror caps), the Beetle is powered by VW’s familiar 1,4-litre turbocharged petrol unit, which sends 110 kW and 250 N.m to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Three colours (Pure White, Tornado Red and Reflex Silver) are on offer, while the standard comfort package includes equipment such as cruise control and “Climatronic” air conditioning. A 6,5-inch colour touchscreen is also part of the deal.
Optional extras include a technology package (parking sensors and a flat tyre indicator for R4 650), panoramic tilt/slide sunroof (R11 500), uprated Fender sound system (R9 800) and a black roof (R2 150).
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/bug-lives-refreshed-vw-beetle-hits-sa-in-r-line-trim/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Volkswagen's new limited edition Beetle: Only 50 units for SA
Volkswagen, piggybacking on the popularity of its R-Line kits on other models has released 50 units of a Beetle R-Line derivative.
The units will only be available at participating dealerships. These models can be differentiated by a redesigned front bumper, a larger central air inlet which is framed in the vehicle body colour and on the outer edges of the bumper finished in black trim.
Only 50 units nationwide
Customers opting for the new limited edition R-Line version will acquire a Beetle that additionally has a further narrow air inlet between number plate and bonnet. Inside, the Beetle features a new trim element in gloss black that runs all around the car.
Also black on these versions is the central and lower part of the rear bumper, diffuser included. The exterior modifications are rounded off by a new optional paint finish, White Silver Metallic, standard Park Distance Control, the newly colour-coordinated 18" Ravenna Adamantium silver alloy wheels and smoked LED tail lights.
Its powered by a 1.4 TSI engine with 110kW and 250Nm. Volkswagen claims the fuel consumption on the new Beetle R-Line is 5.7l/100km. Its fitted with the firm's dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
The Beetle R-Line has ten key standard-specification details namely:
18-inch 'Ravenna' alloy wheels, distinctive sporty exterior styling elements.
Bi-Xenon headlights with LED tail lights.
Composition Media with App-Connect.
Ambient lighting.
Black painted dashpad.
Exclusive R-line interior sport seats.
Pedals in brushed stainless steel.
Leather steering wheel with gloss black inserts.
R-Line logo.
Climatronic 2-zone air conditioning.
Pricing:
Beetle R-Line 1.4 TSI 110kW DSG - R 419 500
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels...-edition-beetle-only-50-units-for-sa-20170808
Volkswagen, piggybacking on the popularity of its R-Line kits on other models has released 50 units of a Beetle R-Line derivative.
The units will only be available at participating dealerships. These models can be differentiated by a redesigned front bumper, a larger central air inlet which is framed in the vehicle body colour and on the outer edges of the bumper finished in black trim.
Only 50 units nationwide
Customers opting for the new limited edition R-Line version will acquire a Beetle that additionally has a further narrow air inlet between number plate and bonnet. Inside, the Beetle features a new trim element in gloss black that runs all around the car.
Also black on these versions is the central and lower part of the rear bumper, diffuser included. The exterior modifications are rounded off by a new optional paint finish, White Silver Metallic, standard Park Distance Control, the newly colour-coordinated 18" Ravenna Adamantium silver alloy wheels and smoked LED tail lights.
Its powered by a 1.4 TSI engine with 110kW and 250Nm. Volkswagen claims the fuel consumption on the new Beetle R-Line is 5.7l/100km. Its fitted with the firm's dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
The Beetle R-Line has ten key standard-specification details namely:
18-inch 'Ravenna' alloy wheels, distinctive sporty exterior styling elements.
Bi-Xenon headlights with LED tail lights.
Composition Media with App-Connect.
Ambient lighting.
Black painted dashpad.
Exclusive R-line interior sport seats.
Pedals in brushed stainless steel.
Leather steering wheel with gloss black inserts.
R-Line logo.
Climatronic 2-zone air conditioning.
Pricing:
Beetle R-Line 1.4 TSI 110kW DSG - R 419 500
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels...-edition-beetle-only-50-units-for-sa-20170808
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Volkswagen brings 50 units of Beetle R-Line to SA…
Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed that 50 units of the limited-edition Beetle R-Line derivative have been set aside for the local market.
Last month, CARmag.co.za reported that the R-Line model was due to arrive in SA, priced at R419 500. But the local arm of the Wolfsburg automaker has since discontinued all other variants of the Beetle, which we suspect renders this limited edition model something of a swansong.
In addition to the R-Line body kit you see in the accompanying images, this model features park distance control, 18-inch alloys, bi-xenon headlamps and smoked LED tail-lights as standard. Inside, you’ll find a black-painted dashpad, fresh seat fabric (with R-Line logos on the headrests up front) and the brand’s Composition Media audio system, featuring a 6,5-inch touchscreen and eight speakers.
Power comes from VW’s familiar 1,4 TSI engine, which directs 110 kW and 250 N.m to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Beetle R-Line will be offered in the choice of three colours: Pure White, Tornado Red and White Silver Metallic, with a black roof as an option (along with a handful of other cost extras, such as a panoramic sunroof for R11 500 and a Fender sound system for R9 800).
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/volkswagen-brings-50-units-of-beetle-r-line-to-sa/
Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed that 50 units of the limited-edition Beetle R-Line derivative have been set aside for the local market.
Last month, CARmag.co.za reported that the R-Line model was due to arrive in SA, priced at R419 500. But the local arm of the Wolfsburg automaker has since discontinued all other variants of the Beetle, which we suspect renders this limited edition model something of a swansong.
In addition to the R-Line body kit you see in the accompanying images, this model features park distance control, 18-inch alloys, bi-xenon headlamps and smoked LED tail-lights as standard. Inside, you’ll find a black-painted dashpad, fresh seat fabric (with R-Line logos on the headrests up front) and the brand’s Composition Media audio system, featuring a 6,5-inch touchscreen and eight speakers.
Power comes from VW’s familiar 1,4 TSI engine, which directs 110 kW and 250 N.m to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Beetle R-Line will be offered in the choice of three colours: Pure White, Tornado Red and White Silver Metallic, with a black roof as an option (along with a handful of other cost extras, such as a panoramic sunroof for R11 500 and a Fender sound system for R9 800).
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/volkswagen-brings-50-units-of-beetle-r-line-to-sa/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
VWSA releases limited edition Beetle R-Line
The Volkswagen Beetle remains one of the world’s iconic shapes, right up there with the Coke bottle and the Barbie doll, whether in its original air-cooled format or the later, front-engined version.
Now VWSA has released a South Africa-only, limited edition Beetle R-Line with distinctive styling tweaks and a raft of special features - but it's still very recognisably a Beetle. Exclusivity will also be part of the deal; just 50 will be made.
The ‘custom’ look starts with a new front bumper moulding that has a bigger central intake, framed by body-colour bars and black trim elements on the outer edges, as well as an additional intake slot between the number plate and the bonnet.
There’s also an extra black plastic trim that runs all the way around the car, emphasising the wheel arches and side sills, and a new lower rear bumper, also in black plastic, that includes a diffuser element.
The Beetle R-Line runs on special colour-coordinated 18 inch rims, and is available in your choice of white, red or a special, very pale metallic silver, exclusive to this model, with a gloss black roof or panoramic sunroof as options.
Inside, you get a black painted dashpad and door panels, R-Line sports front seats trimmed in ‘Kyalami’ fabric upholstery with grey microfibre side bolsters, a leather steering wheel with gloss black inserts, three extra gauges (boost pressure, oil temperature and stopwatch) above the instrument panel, dual-zone climate control, brushed stainless-steel pedals, rear parking sensors and even a glove compartment in original Beetle style.
Standard kit includes an eight-speaker Composition Media audio system with 16.5cm touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB port and Apple CarPlay compatibility; the optional 400 watt Fender soundpack adds a subwoofer, as well as ambient lighting around the speakers, door panels and the LEDs on the loudspeaker rings.
The Beetle R-Line has a 1.4 TSI turbopetrol four rated at 110kW and 250Nm from 1500-3500rpm; DSG transmission is standard.
Price
R-Line 1.4 TSI 110kW DSG R 419 500
That includes a three-year or 120 000km warranty, and a five-year or 90 000km service plan.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/vwsa-releases-limited-edition-beetle-r-line-10690422
The Volkswagen Beetle remains one of the world’s iconic shapes, right up there with the Coke bottle and the Barbie doll, whether in its original air-cooled format or the later, front-engined version.
Now VWSA has released a South Africa-only, limited edition Beetle R-Line with distinctive styling tweaks and a raft of special features - but it's still very recognisably a Beetle. Exclusivity will also be part of the deal; just 50 will be made.
The ‘custom’ look starts with a new front bumper moulding that has a bigger central intake, framed by body-colour bars and black trim elements on the outer edges, as well as an additional intake slot between the number plate and the bonnet.
There’s also an extra black plastic trim that runs all the way around the car, emphasising the wheel arches and side sills, and a new lower rear bumper, also in black plastic, that includes a diffuser element.
The Beetle R-Line runs on special colour-coordinated 18 inch rims, and is available in your choice of white, red or a special, very pale metallic silver, exclusive to this model, with a gloss black roof or panoramic sunroof as options.
Inside, you get a black painted dashpad and door panels, R-Line sports front seats trimmed in ‘Kyalami’ fabric upholstery with grey microfibre side bolsters, a leather steering wheel with gloss black inserts, three extra gauges (boost pressure, oil temperature and stopwatch) above the instrument panel, dual-zone climate control, brushed stainless-steel pedals, rear parking sensors and even a glove compartment in original Beetle style.
Standard kit includes an eight-speaker Composition Media audio system with 16.5cm touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB port and Apple CarPlay compatibility; the optional 400 watt Fender soundpack adds a subwoofer, as well as ambient lighting around the speakers, door panels and the LEDs on the loudspeaker rings.
The Beetle R-Line has a 1.4 TSI turbopetrol four rated at 110kW and 250Nm from 1500-3500rpm; DSG transmission is standard.
Price
R-Line 1.4 TSI 110kW DSG R 419 500
That includes a three-year or 120 000km warranty, and a five-year or 90 000km service plan.
http://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/vwsa-releases-limited-edition-beetle-r-line-10690422
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
[video=youtube;0DGbvr6BEmQ]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DGbvr6BEmQ&t=0s[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Juliet review the VW Beetle R-Line
[video=youtube_share;PIf5_fu8aV4]https://youtu.be/PIf5_fu8aV4[/video]
[video=youtube_share;PIf5_fu8aV4]https://youtu.be/PIf5_fu8aV4[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
VIDEO: 90 SECONDS WITH THE VW BEETLE 1,4 TSI R-LINE
http://www.carmag.co.za/video_post/video-90-seconds-with-the-vw-beetle-14-tsi-r-line/
http://www.carmag.co.za/video_post/video-90-seconds-with-the-vw-beetle-14-tsi-r-line/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
SA’s 11 Worst-Selling Cars (Under R500k) Of Oct 2017
The monthly Naamsa stats generally make for rather interesting reading. But, naturally, we tend to focus on the best-performing vehicles in terms of sales.
Indeed, we’ve already reported the 10 best-selling passenger cars of October 2017, as well as listed the 10 best-selling bakkies in our market for the same period.
But now we’ve decided to take a look at the worst-selling passenger car models on our shores. Thankfully, Hyundai and Kia have started reporting their individual model sales figures, which certainly helps to paint a more accurate monthly picture. But, of course, some other automakers (such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW) still disclose only aggregate sales statistics.
Also, take note that – in order to make this list more relevant – we’ve excluded vehicle ranges that start at more than R500 000. Otherwise, this table would be dominated by luxury manufacturers such as Bentley, Ferrari and Maserati, whose high-priced vehicles traditionally sell in tiny numbers.
We also don’t count sales from run-out stock of vehicles that have been discontinued locally, such as the Volkswagen Scirocco (4), Chevrolet Cruze (3), Mitsubishi Mirage (1) and Ford Fusion (1).
So, what happened during the month of October?
Well, just three units of each of the Mahindra Xylo and Toyota 86 were registered. The Abarth 500 range (4), Tata Manza (4), Alfa Romeo Giulietta (5), Tata Vista (5) and Volvo S60 (5) were next, while the Mazda MX-5 had to settle for six registrations. Suzuki’s Grand Vitara (7), the Volkswagen Beetle (7) and the Toyota Prius (9) rounded out the table.
For reference, see September’s list here.
SA’s 11 worst-selling passenger cars (under R500k) of October 2017:
Mahindra Xylo – 3
Toyota 86 – 3
Abarth 500 – 4
Tata Manza – 4
Alfa Romeo Giulietta – 5
Tata Vista – 5
Volvo S60 – 5
Mazda MX-5 – 6
Suzuki Grand Vitara – 7
Volkswagen Beetle – 7
Toyota Prius – 9
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/sas-11-worst-selling-cars-under-r500k-of-oct-2017/
The monthly Naamsa stats generally make for rather interesting reading. But, naturally, we tend to focus on the best-performing vehicles in terms of sales.
Indeed, we’ve already reported the 10 best-selling passenger cars of October 2017, as well as listed the 10 best-selling bakkies in our market for the same period.
But now we’ve decided to take a look at the worst-selling passenger car models on our shores. Thankfully, Hyundai and Kia have started reporting their individual model sales figures, which certainly helps to paint a more accurate monthly picture. But, of course, some other automakers (such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW) still disclose only aggregate sales statistics.
Also, take note that – in order to make this list more relevant – we’ve excluded vehicle ranges that start at more than R500 000. Otherwise, this table would be dominated by luxury manufacturers such as Bentley, Ferrari and Maserati, whose high-priced vehicles traditionally sell in tiny numbers.
We also don’t count sales from run-out stock of vehicles that have been discontinued locally, such as the Volkswagen Scirocco (4), Chevrolet Cruze (3), Mitsubishi Mirage (1) and Ford Fusion (1).
So, what happened during the month of October?
Well, just three units of each of the Mahindra Xylo and Toyota 86 were registered. The Abarth 500 range (4), Tata Manza (4), Alfa Romeo Giulietta (5), Tata Vista (5) and Volvo S60 (5) were next, while the Mazda MX-5 had to settle for six registrations. Suzuki’s Grand Vitara (7), the Volkswagen Beetle (7) and the Toyota Prius (9) rounded out the table.
For reference, see September’s list here.
SA’s 11 worst-selling passenger cars (under R500k) of October 2017:
Mahindra Xylo – 3
Toyota 86 – 3
Abarth 500 – 4
Tata Manza – 4
Alfa Romeo Giulietta – 5
Tata Vista – 5
Volvo S60 – 5
Mazda MX-5 – 6
Suzuki Grand Vitara – 7
Volkswagen Beetle – 7
Toyota Prius – 9
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/sas-11-worst-selling-cars-under-r500k-of-oct-2017/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Volkswagen Beetle set to go electric and rear-wheel drive
The Beetle EV would act as a sister model to the upcoming Microbus that was previewed as the ID Buzz Concept earlier this year
Volkswagen is actively considering plans for an electric, rear-wheel-drive successor to today’s Beetle as part of a range of zero-emissions models based on its new MEB (Modular Electric Baukasten) platform, according to the German car maker’s chairman, Herbert Diess.
The proposed electric-powered Beetle, which would be a sister model to the modern-day Microbus that was presaged by the ID Buzz concept at this year’s Detroit motor show, is one of a number of proposals that are planned to be put before Volkswagen board members when they meet to vote on ways to build on the company’s initial range of electric cars.
“The next decision on electric cars will be what kind of emotional concepts we need,” says Diess.
Explaining the term “emotional concepts”, Volkswagen’s 59-year-old chairman says it covers cars such as the Microbus and Beetle, as well as open-top models such as the Kübelwagen and Buggy.
Diess denies that a firm decision on the Beetle's successor has been made. However, he suggests that any direct successor model would be electric. “If we wanted to do a Beetle, electrically it would be much better than today’s model, much closer to history, because it could be rear-wheel drive,” he adds.
Diess says the MEB platform provides the perfect basis for emotional concepts: “We have a good chance on the electric side. You can do derivatives efficiently. We have a very flexible platform. We can do nice things: rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive.”
The reference to rear-wheel drive stemmed from the layout planned for Volkswagen’s first fully dedicated electric-powered model, as previewed by the ID hatchback at last year’s Paris motor show. It runs a single electric motor developing 168bhp that is mounted within the rear axle assembly, providing drive to the rear wheels.
The rear-mounted electric motor and rear-wheel-drive layout of the ID hatchback mirrors that of the original Beetle in 1939, which used a rear-mounted boxer engine and was rear-wheel drive. Its adoption on a modern-day Beetle could open up a number of packaging advantages not seen on today’s front-engined/front-wheel-drive model, including a front luggage compartment similar to that of the original.
Volkswagen resurrected the Beetle in 1997 following positive reception of the retro Concept One show car at the 1994 Detroit motor show. The first-generation model was produced at Volkswagen’s plant in Puebla, Mexico, until 2010, when it was succeeded by a second-generation model that remains on sale today.
Diess confirmed to Autocar that the MEB platform is already planned to support up to 15 new electric-powered models, five of which will be sold under the Volkswagen name.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/volkswagen-beetle-set-go-electric-and-rear-wheel-drive
The Beetle EV would act as a sister model to the upcoming Microbus that was previewed as the ID Buzz Concept earlier this year
Volkswagen is actively considering plans for an electric, rear-wheel-drive successor to today’s Beetle as part of a range of zero-emissions models based on its new MEB (Modular Electric Baukasten) platform, according to the German car maker’s chairman, Herbert Diess.
The proposed electric-powered Beetle, which would be a sister model to the modern-day Microbus that was presaged by the ID Buzz concept at this year’s Detroit motor show, is one of a number of proposals that are planned to be put before Volkswagen board members when they meet to vote on ways to build on the company’s initial range of electric cars.
“The next decision on electric cars will be what kind of emotional concepts we need,” says Diess.
Explaining the term “emotional concepts”, Volkswagen’s 59-year-old chairman says it covers cars such as the Microbus and Beetle, as well as open-top models such as the Kübelwagen and Buggy.
Diess denies that a firm decision on the Beetle's successor has been made. However, he suggests that any direct successor model would be electric. “If we wanted to do a Beetle, electrically it would be much better than today’s model, much closer to history, because it could be rear-wheel drive,” he adds.
Diess says the MEB platform provides the perfect basis for emotional concepts: “We have a good chance on the electric side. You can do derivatives efficiently. We have a very flexible platform. We can do nice things: rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive.”
The reference to rear-wheel drive stemmed from the layout planned for Volkswagen’s first fully dedicated electric-powered model, as previewed by the ID hatchback at last year’s Paris motor show. It runs a single electric motor developing 168bhp that is mounted within the rear axle assembly, providing drive to the rear wheels.
The rear-mounted electric motor and rear-wheel-drive layout of the ID hatchback mirrors that of the original Beetle in 1939, which used a rear-mounted boxer engine and was rear-wheel drive. Its adoption on a modern-day Beetle could open up a number of packaging advantages not seen on today’s front-engined/front-wheel-drive model, including a front luggage compartment similar to that of the original.
Volkswagen resurrected the Beetle in 1997 following positive reception of the retro Concept One show car at the 1994 Detroit motor show. The first-generation model was produced at Volkswagen’s plant in Puebla, Mexico, until 2010, when it was succeeded by a second-generation model that remains on sale today.
Diess confirmed to Autocar that the MEB platform is already planned to support up to 15 new electric-powered models, five of which will be sold under the Volkswagen name.
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/volkswagen-beetle-set-go-electric-and-rear-wheel-drive
FiestaST
Honorary Master
'What a way to say goodbye' - VW Beetle R-line driven
I must admit, I had no idea what to expect from the Volkswagen Beetle R-line.
For one, it’s the automaker’s most recent Beetle and two… the only Beetle I had previously experienced was the one hippies used to paint flowers on during the 60s and 70s.
'I've got the bug'
While testing the Beetle for a week, it grew on me and by the end of my experience behind the wheel, I, well, got bitten by the 'Bug'.
The Beetle is regarded as one of the most important cars in automotive history, despite its controversial 'founder'; In the 1930s it was then German chancellor Adolf Hitler’s idea to produce a cheap, economical family car, eventually being dubbed the Volkswagen or 'Peoples car'. Ferdinand Porsche and his team took until 1938 to finalise the design.
Throughout the 1960s and 70s the Beetle became incredibly popular. People painted their Beetles with flowers, peace signs and a kaleidoscope of colour. It's a Volkswagen with a long, lustrous history.
So has the baton been passed on to a worthy heir in the form of the 2017 Beetle? Despite its hefty price tag (R419 000)… my answer would be a resounding yes and here’s why.
A must have in red
The Beetle R-line is a stunning little car. I feel the colour it's best suited for is VW's Tornado Red paint job and not the pure white or white/silver metallic options available. Along with such a radical colour, the Bug comes with led taillights, Bi-Xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.
The Beetle R-line sports distinctive 18" Ravenna adamantium rims, a space and weight-saving spare wheel, gloss black mirror housing, black wheel arch flares and black and chrome side protection panels.
It turns heads wherever I went, usually followed by a nod or a thumbs up from passerbys. Most of the appreciation came from fellow Beetle owners, whether it be the old or new models.
If this is the kind of attention the Beetle gets in 2017, I can only imagine how popular it must have been in the 60s and 70s.
Only 50 R-line Models were made for SA and one can come to the conclusion that this was Volkswagen’s attempt at making a ‘badder’ bug. Has VW succeeded in doing so? Definitely, It’s a car for a 2017 and beyond, it’s the adult who loves to look at memes while wearing a fresh pair of white sneakers.
But that’s not where the fun stops… it gets better the more time you spend behind the wheel.
The Beetle R-line is a car you’d want to drive all the time.
It's is powered by a 1.4 TSI engine with 110kW and 250Nm. Volkswagen claims the fuel consumption is 5.7-litres/100km. It's fitted with the firm's dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
Before I delve into what it's like to drive, its fuel consumption that gets my stamp of approval as it's achievable despite spirited driving.
In the Beetle, I travelled quite a bit - more than 350km. I was left with exactly a quarter tank, that’s pretty impressive from any turbo-charged engine.
The drive was fun, pleasurable and very inviting. With 110kW, you have just about enough power for easy overtaking and that’s about all you need. Also, 18’’ is a lot of rubber to handle which explains why it may feel slightly heavy at the steering wheel. Nevertheless, its not something to worry about at all.
Just don’t be fooled by the ‘R’ badge. While driving I felt that the Beetle R-line would have been a much, much better car with a power increase but then again… that was just my inner petrolhead whispering in my ear. Sprucing up the Beetle would come at the sacrifice of the Beetle’s ‘essence’, which is being a stylish, easy to drive, economic and fun car to own.
In a nutshell, the driving experience is as refreshing as the Bettle is to gaze at. Sadly though, this is where the road ends for the Beetle, the last one… a swansong of note.
I feel that Volkswagen combined every single ingredient that made the Beetle such an icon and made a vehicle worthy of a send-off.
One thing was for sure, VW was never going to mess around with its design. Yes it might have gotten slightly bigger but it remained a Beetle forever. The R-line Beetle is economical and practical enough for a family of four. And just for a little x-factor (a characteristic always associated with the Bug), VW decided to give it a slight injection of pace with its 1.4-litre turbo charged TSI engine.
That’s a lot of pedigree into one Beetle and I have to say VW got it together with this one. If there was ever a way to bow out and drop the mic… what a way to do so!
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/what-a-way-to-say-goodbye-vw-beetle-r-line-driven-20171201
I must admit, I had no idea what to expect from the Volkswagen Beetle R-line.
For one, it’s the automaker’s most recent Beetle and two… the only Beetle I had previously experienced was the one hippies used to paint flowers on during the 60s and 70s.
'I've got the bug'
While testing the Beetle for a week, it grew on me and by the end of my experience behind the wheel, I, well, got bitten by the 'Bug'.
The Beetle is regarded as one of the most important cars in automotive history, despite its controversial 'founder'; In the 1930s it was then German chancellor Adolf Hitler’s idea to produce a cheap, economical family car, eventually being dubbed the Volkswagen or 'Peoples car'. Ferdinand Porsche and his team took until 1938 to finalise the design.
Throughout the 1960s and 70s the Beetle became incredibly popular. People painted their Beetles with flowers, peace signs and a kaleidoscope of colour. It's a Volkswagen with a long, lustrous history.
So has the baton been passed on to a worthy heir in the form of the 2017 Beetle? Despite its hefty price tag (R419 000)… my answer would be a resounding yes and here’s why.
A must have in red
The Beetle R-line is a stunning little car. I feel the colour it's best suited for is VW's Tornado Red paint job and not the pure white or white/silver metallic options available. Along with such a radical colour, the Bug comes with led taillights, Bi-Xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.
The Beetle R-line sports distinctive 18" Ravenna adamantium rims, a space and weight-saving spare wheel, gloss black mirror housing, black wheel arch flares and black and chrome side protection panels.
It turns heads wherever I went, usually followed by a nod or a thumbs up from passerbys. Most of the appreciation came from fellow Beetle owners, whether it be the old or new models.
If this is the kind of attention the Beetle gets in 2017, I can only imagine how popular it must have been in the 60s and 70s.
Only 50 R-line Models were made for SA and one can come to the conclusion that this was Volkswagen’s attempt at making a ‘badder’ bug. Has VW succeeded in doing so? Definitely, It’s a car for a 2017 and beyond, it’s the adult who loves to look at memes while wearing a fresh pair of white sneakers.
But that’s not where the fun stops… it gets better the more time you spend behind the wheel.
The Beetle R-line is a car you’d want to drive all the time.
It's is powered by a 1.4 TSI engine with 110kW and 250Nm. Volkswagen claims the fuel consumption is 5.7-litres/100km. It's fitted with the firm's dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
Before I delve into what it's like to drive, its fuel consumption that gets my stamp of approval as it's achievable despite spirited driving.
In the Beetle, I travelled quite a bit - more than 350km. I was left with exactly a quarter tank, that’s pretty impressive from any turbo-charged engine.
The drive was fun, pleasurable and very inviting. With 110kW, you have just about enough power for easy overtaking and that’s about all you need. Also, 18’’ is a lot of rubber to handle which explains why it may feel slightly heavy at the steering wheel. Nevertheless, its not something to worry about at all.
Just don’t be fooled by the ‘R’ badge. While driving I felt that the Beetle R-line would have been a much, much better car with a power increase but then again… that was just my inner petrolhead whispering in my ear. Sprucing up the Beetle would come at the sacrifice of the Beetle’s ‘essence’, which is being a stylish, easy to drive, economic and fun car to own.
In a nutshell, the driving experience is as refreshing as the Bettle is to gaze at. Sadly though, this is where the road ends for the Beetle, the last one… a swansong of note.
I feel that Volkswagen combined every single ingredient that made the Beetle such an icon and made a vehicle worthy of a send-off.
One thing was for sure, VW was never going to mess around with its design. Yes it might have gotten slightly bigger but it remained a Beetle forever. The R-line Beetle is economical and practical enough for a family of four. And just for a little x-factor (a characteristic always associated with the Bug), VW decided to give it a slight injection of pace with its 1.4-litre turbo charged TSI engine.
That’s a lot of pedigree into one Beetle and I have to say VW got it together with this one. If there was ever a way to bow out and drop the mic… what a way to do so!
http://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModels/what-a-way-to-say-goodbye-vw-beetle-r-line-driven-20171201
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Volkswagen Beetle R-Line (2017) Quick Review
Pricing and warranty
When the Beetle R-Line was launched in August 2017, it was priced at R419 900 and was sold with a 3-year/120 000 km warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Following the discontinuation of the Beetle in South Africa, Volkswagen South Africa no longer lists the Beetle on its website, so if you are interested in buying the Beetle R-Line, you will have to find one in the used market.
Verdict
To reiterate, the current generation Beetle has a small but passionate fan base. Yes, the R-Line derivative is a cute car and it’s particularly dashing in red. Its punchy engine, slick DSG transmission and playful handling ability make it a joy to drive on a daily basis. It exhibits a relatively comfortable ride quality, which adds to its youthful appeal, and it comes well-equipped with features.
Considering the price of the R-Line (priced at about R435 000 on the used car market), it’s an expensive proposition if you consider that it’s not the most practical car you can buy at this price point. But if style and fun-factor take precedence over practicality for you, then it’s certainly an option to consider. However, if the latest Beetle never struck a chord with you, then this Beetle R-Line is unlikely to change your mind.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/volkswagen-beetle-r-line-2017-quick-review/44488/
Pricing and warranty
When the Beetle R-Line was launched in August 2017, it was priced at R419 900 and was sold with a 3-year/120 000 km warranty, 5-year/90 000 km service plan and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Following the discontinuation of the Beetle in South Africa, Volkswagen South Africa no longer lists the Beetle on its website, so if you are interested in buying the Beetle R-Line, you will have to find one in the used market.
Verdict
To reiterate, the current generation Beetle has a small but passionate fan base. Yes, the R-Line derivative is a cute car and it’s particularly dashing in red. Its punchy engine, slick DSG transmission and playful handling ability make it a joy to drive on a daily basis. It exhibits a relatively comfortable ride quality, which adds to its youthful appeal, and it comes well-equipped with features.
Considering the price of the R-Line (priced at about R435 000 on the used car market), it’s an expensive proposition if you consider that it’s not the most practical car you can buy at this price point. But if style and fun-factor take precedence over practicality for you, then it’s certainly an option to consider. However, if the latest Beetle never struck a chord with you, then this Beetle R-Line is unlikely to change your mind.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/volkswagen-beetle-r-line-2017-quick-review/44488/
