Though the current Volkswagen Beetle debuted with much fanfare and strong initial sales, its age now sees it becoming one of those long in the tooth designs that soldiers on solely because of a devoted following.
Volkswagen, however, recognizing the strength of the brand is looking to replace it with another “New Beetle”, and possibly, an “Old Beetle.” Not literally, but the availability of their next generation, small car platform (found under the Up!), and the fact that it is rear engine, makes a compelling case for introducing a Beetle mare along the lines of the original.
The “New Beetle” would once again be underpinned by the Golf/Rabbit chassis. Along with the replacements for the current coupe and cabriolet, there stands the possibility of a Speedster like offering (sadly not like a Karmen Ghia) and a, raised, armored for off road, “Baja Bug”.
The more enticing proposition though would be the possible Up1 based variant. Closer in size to the original and sharing the same rear engine layout, the car would likely embody much of what made the original so loved; fuel efficiency, space, price, and good driving dynamics.
Our take? Rear engine, rear wheel drive does it for us. Considering the wonderful aftermarket support all VW seem to get, we look forward to sampling a new “Old Beetle.”
Don’t think rear-engine, rear-drive is going to happen. I think VW has already abandoned that layout to go with a conventional front-engine design.