Based on the current Beetle, the yet-unnamed concept will wear a rugged, Audi allroad-like appearance thanks to plastic cladding on the wheel arches, brushed aluminum trim on both ends and 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped by all-terrain tires. The suspension will be noticeably raised in order to increase the car’s off-road capacity.
Inside, the Beetle Dune will boast a bespoke analog instrument cluster that harks back to the original Beetle, sport seats for the front passengers and a state-of-the-art infotainment system controlled by a 7.7-inch touch screen mounted on the center stack. The cabin will be equipped with several grab handles including a large one prominently mounted in lieu of the glovebox.
The fully-functional concept will be powered by a 210-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas-burning engine linked to a six-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. The Beetle Dune will be able to sprint from zero to 62 mph 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 140 mph.
German magazine Auto Bild claims the concept has already been given the green light for production and a toned down version of it will join the Volkswagen lineup in 2015.
If the rumor proves true, look for official information about the off-road Beetle to emerge in the coming days.
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