Where else to gain public opinions on the latest VW Beetle than at a place called Ferry Road Diner on the Gold Coast.
It’s a well-known meeting place on Friday nights for all things retro, mainly those on four wheels. The diner has a car park the size of a drive-in movie theatre. Perfect for those who like to drive and to admire each other’s cars.
We rocked up in a new VeeDub Beetle, bright red in colour and sporting a great set of 18-inch twister alloy wheels. And found ourselves sharing parking space with thumping Chevys, A-Model Fords, an Excalibur and a couple of Cadillacs. Our Beetle delighted us in getting more than its fair share of admirers.
The next day we went to the supermarket and again the Beetle attracted plenty of lookers . . . all of them smiling, with quite a few wanting to talk to us about the new shape.
The first New Beetle looked cute and feminine. The new model (simply called the Beetle, the ‘New’ has gone) has a wider-stance lower roof and longer body that allowed designers to replace cute with curve. The roof extends further back and it’s now a better proportioned car. The benefits include an increase in boot capacity from 209 litres up to 310 litres. Fold the seats down and it leaps to 910 litres. This is a coupe rather than a hatchback so is a car for singles or couples, not really being suited to family use.
The cabin will also bring a smile to most people’s faces. The colour matches whatever exterior you select.
Volkswagen Beetle for 2013 comes with one power train only at this stage. It’s a 1.4-litre twin-charged petrol engine with 118kW of power and 240Nm of torque.
It’s a modest-performing car, though you wouldn’t describe it as a slouch.
Ride comfort is good on most surfaces and the slightly firm suspension provides the sort of handling that keen drivers will appreciate.
A sports coupe it’s not, but the 2013 Beetle will be given the nod by all but full-on revheads.
Prices start at $29,990, not including government or dealer delivery charges.
