Skip advert
Advertisement

Four fab new VW Beetle concepts take a bow in New York

Sporty new Volkswagen Beetle R-Line concept car joined by three others at 2015 New York Motor Show

Volkswagen has revealed four new concept versions of the VW Beetle at the 2015 New York Motor Show, which it says are “tailored for diverse target groups of people who share a love for one of the most charismatic cars of our times.”

The Beetle R-Line, Denim, Wave and Pink Edition models reveal the scope of personalisation options available and could eventually lead to production versions. 

Arguably the most feasible of the four Beetle concepts is the VW Beetle R-Line Concept. Volkswagen already markets several R-Line models in the UK – from the Golf right up to the Touareg – so a sportier-looking Beetle model could be a logical next step.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Beetle R-Line concept is based on the Beetle hatch, and features Oryx White Pearl Effect paint, chunky bumpers and 20-inch Monterey alloy wheels. There’s also a large rear spoiler, high-gloss body mouldings and a black diffuser. To emphasise its sporty nature, the Beetle R-Line is 14mm wider than the standard production car.

Inside the R-Line gets sports bucket seats, glossy black seatbelt shells and leather-carbon trim. The dials are finished in a contrasting yellow, as is much of the interior stitching. It also boasts the 217bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre engine from the current Golf GTI.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Next up is Beetle Cabriolet Denim. It features a denim-coloured convertible roof, as well as Stonewashed Blue Metallic paint. VW says if the car made production it would be available with nine other colour options – though it’s likely all would feature the dark blue roof and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Naturally, the use of denim extends to the car’s interior, too, with blue sports seats and door panels, as well as unique trim for the steering wheel, gear lever and front centre armrest. The concept car features a 168bhp 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine, though European cars would inevitably be available with lower-powered diesels, too.

Following the convertible theme is the Beetle Cabriolet Wave. Designed for drop-top drivers with a love of surfing, the Wave gets a Habanero Orange paint job, 19-inch Tornado alloy wheels and R-Line bumpers. Inside there’s classic fabrics and a surf board-inspired wood dashboard panel.

The Beetle Pink Edition – featuring with Fuchsine Metallic paint and pink interior accents – completes the range, with contrasting door mirrors and side body mouldings. The Pink Edition also gets 19-inch alloys and sporty chrome trim.

While none are officially confirmed for production – let alone for UK sale – they could all hint at future production models. Volkswagen bosses will use the show to judge public reaction, describing all four as “near-production concept cars”. 

Get all the news from the 2015 New York Motor Show here...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Deputy editor

Richard has been part of the team for over a decade. During this time he has covered a huge amount of news and reviews for Auto Express, as well as being the face of Carbuyer and DrivingElectric on Youtube. In his current role as deputy editor, he is now responsible for keeping our content flowing and managing our team of talented writers.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

We drive Herbie 'The Love Bug', the world's most famous VW
Tom Jervis with Herbie

We drive Herbie 'The Love Bug', the world's most famous VW

We meet the owner of the original Herbie, and take the iconic movie car out for a drive
Features
7 Aug 2024
Best cars to modify - our top options for DIY car mods
Best cars to modify - header image

Best cars to modify - our top options for DIY car mods

If you have the itch for aftermarket parts and making your ride unique, these are the best cars to go for
Best cars & vans
13 May 2024
Kia EV9 named World Car of the Year 2024
Kia EV9 Air - front static

Kia EV9 named World Car of the Year 2024

It was more Korean success in the World Car of the Year awards this time, both Kia and Hyundai claimed wins alongside BMW, Volvo and Toyota.
News
27 Mar 2024
Fiery hot Genesis GV60 Magma Concept launches new name in EV performance
Genesis GV60 Magma Concept - front reveal

Fiery hot Genesis GV60 Magma Concept launches new name in EV performance

The GV60 Magma Concept will spawn a hot production car that will come to the UK
News
26 Mar 2024

Most Popular

New cars that plummet in value can make brilliant used buys
Opinion - Vauxhall Corsa-e

New cars that plummet in value can make brilliant used buys

Editor Paul Barker takes a closer look at our 2024 Used Car Awards
Opinion
20 Nov 2024
A £10k electric car with a 100-mile range would surely be a sales success
Opinion - cheap EV

A £10k electric car with a 100-mile range would surely be a sales success

Mike Rutherford thinks there would be demand for an electric car with a modest 100-mile range if it only cost £10k
Opinion
17 Nov 2024
New Jaguar logos unveiled as big concept reveal moves closer
New Jaguar logo 1

New Jaguar logos unveiled as big concept reveal moves closer

Jaguar has revealed its new logos and styling details ahead of its transition into a luxury EV brand
News
19 Nov 2024