The 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Dune first debuted at the 2015 L.A. Auto Show and moved the automotive needle about as much as another Expendables movie would. Inspired by the Baja Bugs of yesteryear that were once ubiquitous in Southern California, the Dune is an homage to an era gone by. It mostly relies on aesthetics, rather than legit sand running capability, to attract its fanbase.
A rear track that’s 0.2 inches wider and a suspension that’s 0.4 inches higher are the biggest changes that separate the car from a standard Beetle. That’s it for the mechanical changes. Graphics, black fender arches, black grille, LED lights, new wheel design, and an exclusive color known as Sandstorm Yellow complete the exterior changes. Yellow accents on the interior along with excellent sport seats and a flat bottomed steering wheel with a “DUNE” badge complete the package.
Under the hood is VW’s 1.8-liter turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with sport and manual modes. It is a good combination. The 170 horses and 184 lb-ft are able to provide spirited driving in the Rocky Mountains where 7% grades are not uncommon. EPA mpg estimates are 25 in the city, 34 on the highway, and 28 combined.
Prices for the Dune hardtop in Sandstorm Yellow (+$250) start at $25,065. The Dune convertible is not yet on VW’s website but for reference the Beetle Convertible Denim starts at $25,995. While there are some mechanical changes, the Dune is essentially an appearance package that will likely appeal to a very limited number of people. Make no mistake, if you are one of those people, DO NOT take your car in the sand. If you do, please record it and send us the video. Check out the video above to see the Beetle Dune convertible. As silly as the package is, it’s still a fun, solid little car.
Check out the Beetle Dune in the video below.
