automotivebriefs
Designer

J Mays

Website →
1
brief
9:30
average
10 min
in total
On automotive.briefs1
video still
9:30

Volkswagen New Beetle

J Mays · 1997

The New Beetle is a compact, front-engine, front-wheel-drive car introduced in 1998, inspired by the exterior design of the original Beetle. It was assembled in VW's Puebla factory in Mexico. It received a facelift in 2005 and remained in production until 2011. The New Beetle carries many design similarities with the original VW Beetle: separate fenders, vestigial running boards, sloping headlamps, and large round taillights, as well as a high rounded roofline. Unlike the original Beetle, the New Beetle has its engine in the front driving the front wheels, with luggage storage in the rear. The New Beetle achieved five stars in the 2011 Euro NCAP tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the New Beetle a Good overall score in their frontal crash test. However, the IIHS rated the Beetle Poor in their side impact test.