It’s a dune deal – Volkswagen of America announced the addition of the Beetle Dune trim line at the 2015 L.A. Auto Show. Inspired by classic baja bugs, the Dune sits 0.4 inches higher and has a track that is 0.6 inches wider than a standard bug. It will also come with black wheel arches and new front and rear facias in an attempt to give itself a more aggressive appearance. Other off-roadish additions will include:
- 18-inch Canyon aluminum alloy wheels
- 235/45 all-season tires
- Front skid plate (the rear diffuser also acts as a second skid plate)
- A large rear spoiler
- “Dune” graphics and three exterior color choices – Sandstorm Yellow, Pure White, and Deep Black Pearl
“The new Dune successfully captures the iconic spirit of Baja Beetles, with a more rugged feel and amenities never before offered on the third-generation Beetle,” said Joerg Sommer, Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “With its sporty and aggressive design and a number of the new technology features, we are confident that the new Dune will appeal to both new and returning Beetle customers.”
Inside, owners of the Dune Beetle will get a leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel and sport seats with orange stitching. On the technology side, the Dune Beetle will be equipped with the latest gen. MIB II infotainment system with a 6.3-inch capacitive touch screen and VW’s available Car-Net suite of features. The system promises to allow seamless integration with compatible smartphones via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirrorlink, the three major smartphone platforms. An available technology package will add dual-zone climate controls, a Fender premium audio system, keyless access with push-button start, and a tilt-and-slide sunroof.
Sadly, the Dune will not see an increase in power over standard Beetles and will come fitted with a 1.8L turbocharged TSI 4-cylinder engine producing 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in the current front-wheel drive configuration. Look for the Dune Beetle to reach showrooms in the first quarter of 2016, with a convertible Dune arriving sometime in the third quarter. Pricing has yet to be announced.
Check out the video below of the Dune concept from the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
