The New Volkswagen Beetle Unveiled

The latest generation Volkswagen Beetle has been unveiled in Shanghai, marking a new era in the car's history. The new generation moves away from the design of the Volkswagen Beetle from 1998, and now draws its design cues from the original and Beetle Ragster concept shown in detroit in 2005.

The new Volkswagen beetle measures 4,278 mm in length (+152 mm), 1,808 mm in width (+84 mm) and 1,486 in height (-12 mm). The track width front and rear as well as the wheelbase at 2,537 mm, are also increased.

The new proportions mean the roof now extends further back, the windscreen is shifted backwards and the rear section is closer to the original Volkswagen Beetle. The bootspace now offers 310 litres, up from the 209 litres of the 1998 model.

Certain features of the original are reminiscent of the original Volkswagen Beetle, such as the glovebox and colour accent panels.

There will be three trim levels available - Beetle, Design and Sport - each of which with its own character and features,. Optional equipment will include Keyless Access through satellite navigation systems, panoramic sunroof as well as bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.

For the UK, there will be four engine options, three petrol -a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS, a 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI 200 PS; and one diesel - a 1.6-litre 105 PS with Volkswagen's BlueMotion Technology. The addition of Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems allow the Volkswagen Beetle to achieve estimated figures of 65.7 mpg on the combined cycle and 112g/km CO2 emissions with the 1.6 litre 105PS engine.

Safety features will include standard ESP and six airbags, alongside a laser-welded and galvanised body structure. The top of the range engine, the 2.0 litre 200 PS will feature standard XDS electronic differential lock as fitted to the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

The new Volkswagen Beetle will be available to order in the summer in the UK, with the first cars arriving in showrooms during early 2012.