Beetle Refresh on the Way?
June 15, 2007 – 10:21 am by Matt Radel
Filed under Concepts
According to the Volkswagen Blog, the Beetle will become an economy car.
VW Blog says that the new car will be an entry level economy class four seater with rear-wheel drive. Cost predictions put it in the $10,000 to $14,000 range, in a perfect spot to square off against the likes of the Toyota Yaris. The U.S. version will sport two versions, one a retro hatchback and the other a standard sedan.
VW Blog also says that the name for the vehicle is uncertain, though some say it will be “Lupa”.
This is the first we’ve heard of a new name for the car, but the rumors have been swirling about a new Beetle for a bit. But to convert the beloved Beetle into an economy car? I’m not sure how I feel about that. On one hand, the contemporary view of the Beetle has become one of of “cuteness”, making it more of a novelty. People have come to expect that, and I think some folks will be very turned off by an economy car.
But then again, this is the Beetle’s roots. The fact that just about everyone could drive a Volkswagen Beetle is empowering, and kind of spits in the face of the idea of the brand moving upscale. So to that end, I’d be happy.
But of course the real verdict would be handed down when(if) the new model is released. If it screams economy car, folks will thumb their nose at it. But if they can pull it off, it’d be a great penetration car. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see…
Beetle Refresh on the Way?
June 15, 2007 – 10:21 am by Matt Radel
“…the contemporary view of the Beetle has become one of of “cuteness”, making it more of a novelty. People have come to expect that, and I think some folks will be very turned off by an economy car.”
Agreed. I’d like to see VWoA pull the Polo and Polo GTI models to the States. While some would say that the Polo would be in direct competition with the Rabbit and GTI, but I don’t think so. At least not right away. The Polo would be priced lower than the Rabbit, and is smaller.