Here Is The 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Dune

Published on November 18, 2015 in Los Angeles by Frédérick Boucher-Gaulin

When we think about the original Beetle, one of the first things that pops into our minds is a dune buggy. Based on regular Beetle chassis, lacking power and any sort of all-wheel drive, these little off-roaders were surprisingly capable: they weighed next to nothing and their rear-engine configuration gave them impressive traction.

Volkswagen wants to make use of yesterday’s success: ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show, they showed a production version of the Beetle Dune, a direct descendant of those buggies.

Based on the VW Beetle, the Dune is a little higher (1 cm) and wider (1.5 cm). While it probably can’t go off road, it can at least pretend to: with larger bumpers, widened fenders and unique wheels, the Beetle Dune looks like a true 4x4.

Engine-wise, there are no changes: a turbocharged 1.8-litre four cylinder developing 170 horsepower turning the front wheels and a six-speed automatic gearbox come standard.

Two versions will be offered: the Beetle Dune coupe will arrive early next year, while a convertible version is planned later on.