Autosportfoto

VW Beetle dune concept brings sunshine to Detroit

In the midst of a ferociously cold Michigan winter, the new Volkswagen Beetle Dune concept is all set to bring a hint of summer sunshine when it makes its debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit next week.

The Beetle Dune is based on the latest version of the iconic Volkswagen, and adds a cool, rugged off-road look. The body has been raised by 50 mm compared with a standard Beetle, while 19-inch wheels with large tyres lend an all-terrain look. A rear-mounted ski-rack is reminiscent of those fitted to classic Beetles, and makes a perfect accessory for the season. In the summer, it could hold a sandboard - the ideal accessory for surfing the sand dunes from which the Beetle Dune takes its name.

The latest Beetle Dune concept also revisits an idea from January 2000, when Volkswagen showed the New Beetle Dune concept in Los Angeles. But while that vehicle was far from a production possibility, the Beetle Dune is very much based on the current production model, using the same 210 PS turbocharged petrol engine and six-speed DSG gearbox, providing power to the front wheels.

Further information on and images of the Beetle Dune concept will be available after the car makes its debut at the NAIAS on 13 January.