Volkswagen will launch a new version of its iconic Beetle in 2012, according to the president and CEO of VW Group of America.
Stefan Jacoby, speaking to reporters in Germany, said the Beetle would be a “halo car” for the VW group and he expects the new model to achieve higher sales than the outgoing one.
"There is a great opportunity with the Beetle and the emotional fabric it has to offer,” he said. The new Beetle proved especially popular in the US, where its sales peaked at 83,434 in 1999 in the country.
Jacoby said the new model would address concerns of the current one, mainly its cramped rear seat. “More space inside and better packaging are essential,” he said, but the new car wouldn’t necessarily be any bigger.
Walter de' Silva, VW Group’s head designer, said the new model “will be a big step” for the brand.
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