The current production Beetle R-Line occupies a curious spot in VW's lineup. The sportiest Beetle of the bunch, it doesn't do anything the fantastic GTI can't for roughly the same money. So it largely comes down to aesthetics. To explore what a Beetle R-Line could be, nay might be, Volkswagen waved its magic design wand and came up with the Beetle R-Line concept just in time for the 2015 New York auto show.
The changes are subtle but strive to separate to R-Line concept from its production brethren. Gloss-black wheel-opening moldings and mirror caps play off Oryx White pearl-effect paint, and 20-inch Monterey aluminum wheels set the tone for the concept. VW claims the concept is 0.6-inch wider than the regular R-Line, most of that due likely to the prominent flares. A large air vent resides atop the front bumper, and the lower driving lamps have three horizontal bars in place of the production car's two. A rear diffuser fills the gap between the twin exhaust finishers, and a larger rear spoiler lends an air of seriousness to its typically playful posterior.
Inside, the dash pad, door inserts, and steering-wheel spokes all receive the look of carbon fiber, if not the structural benefits. The instruments get a contrasting yellow finish, and yellow decorative stitches dot the cabin. Upgraded sport seats help keep occupants planted when engaging in the type of activities befitting of an R-Line product.
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Those hoping for a commensurate increase in the power department will be saddened to learn that the Beetle R-Line concept—remember, it's just a concept at this point—makes do with same 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder engine as the standard R-Line, although VW is claiming 217 horsepower in the concept (the 2015 R-Line production model is rated at 210). We'll take a little extra oomph however we can get it, but VW hasn't yet mentioned where it found those seven ponies. Regardless, we're hoping VW follows through and migrates some of the concept's visual cues to the production car—and adds some grunt for good measure. In the meantime, those looking for a hot Beetle should direct their gaze at the Volkswagen Beetle GRC.
from Car and Driver Blog http://ift.tt/nSHy27
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