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Volkswagen Beetle Now Available With R-Line Trim

While the car isn't a true R version, this appearance package should soon be available for U.S. buyers at a modest cost.

By Clifford Atiyeh Sep 14, 2012 5:52AM
Volkswagen Beetle R-Line (c) VWPay more, look sportier, go no quicker. That's the idea behind Volkswagen's R-Line packages, a new series of cosmetic options borrowing the letter from the company's racing division.

After the CC R-Line in May, Volkswagen announced the Beetle would get R'ed -- excuse us, R-Lined -- beginning this fall in Europe. This isn't to be confused with actual "R" models, such as the seriously quick 256-horsepower Golf R sold here. While a real Beetle R would be a hoot, the Beetle R-Line -- which Volkswagen has not yet confirmed for the U.S. -- offers no powertrain or suspension upgrades.

For about $2,160, Europeans can order their Beetle with a rear diffuser, a new lower fascia with chrome and black trim, 18-inch alloy wheels, and "active-breathing" seat fabric. As expected, R-Line badges are included, just as S-Line badges are on certain Audi models. While Volkswagen is launching the Beetle Cabriolet at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the company said it was "exploring additional R-Line models outside of the CC."

Whether you're concerned with the color of your Beetle's handbrake stitching or would rather spend the money on an actual performance upgrade to your Beetle -- well, that's your call.

Volkswagen Beetle R-Line interior (c) VW

[Source: Volkswagen, login required]


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6Comments
mrchriss
Sep 14, 2012 7:11AM
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It's like putting lipstick on a pig...
TXMX-5EE
Sep 14, 2012 7:54AM
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I actually like the New New Beetle (now called Beetle again I guess).  I know it is the end result of a marketing meeting sitting down and saying "how can we get more men to buy the New Beetle?", but I have to confess they earned their pay.  The new interior really works for me, and the exterior changes are subtle but really do make it more aggressive.  So for me, thumbs up.

Having said that, I hate these sort of $2k+ appearance packages with no substantial upgrades.  Couldn't they have at least thrown in stiffer springs or an LSD or something?  I admit, when I first saw the headline, I thought "Cool, the Beetle is getting the Golf R treatment".  Needless to say, I was disappointed as soon as I finished the full headline.  Now, a true Beetle R with the 271hp engine from the Golf R would be impressive, but admittedly unlikely.

frostyross
Sep 14, 2012 9:42AM
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A huge improvement over the first new Beetle, I thought it was a turd.
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