The new Jetta is providing a strong tailwind for Volkswagen’s sales totals in the United States, but the brand is counting on an old-time stalwart to continue success in the future. That would be the Beetle, which is completely redesigned for 2012.
VW’s strong sales recently have come despite the lack of Passat mid-size sedan (the all-new model is launching later this year) and the presence the Beetle in the lineup. When the previous New Beetle launched back in 1998 it provided a boost for the company.
To kick off sales of the redesigned Beetle, VW is announcing the Black Turbo Launch Edition. Its name tells all; the car will be finished in black, turbocharged and limited to just 600 units.
The Black Turbo Launch Edition will be powered by a 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder making 200 horsepower, mated to a dual-clutch transmission. Visually the changes aren’t all that much but include foglights, a rear spoiler and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Hardware upgrades include upgraded brakes with red calipers. Inside, the car gets a full compliment of standard kit that includes Bluetooth® technology, iPod connectivity, three-color ambient lighting, alloy pedals, and an eight-speaker sound system. The sports seats are finished in cloth and the car adds a “kaeferfach” additional glovebox that aims to evoke the original Beetle.
Sounds pretty cool and looks even cooler in the images if you ask us. The car is also the first to use Volkswagen’s new Vehicle Pre-Order Program (VPO) which it says is designed for “passionate consumers.” The service enables you to more easily get in line for limited edition models through pre-ordering. Interested customers pay a $495 reservation fee that goes towards the car’s purchase price.
The reservation fee is refundable if you no longer are interested. The service utilizes technology from Amazon to complete the transaction. Reservations have started now; if you’re interested you can head to www.VW.com/preorder.
From there you can review program information, enter key details like your ZIP code and billing information as well as selecting a dealer for delivery. The VW Beetle Black Turbo Launch edition is priced at $24,950. If you’re interested, hurry up – the limited-edition 600 unit run is likely to sell out quickly!
