Limited Edition Beetle GSR unveiled at Chicago Auto Show.
The stripey new GSR secures a 150 hp increase from its predecessor, amping up power to the front wheels to 200 hp, enabling a sprint to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 7.3 seconds. With a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph), power is made available to the wheels via either a 6-speed manual or DSG autobox. VW’s tried and true, turbo-charged 4 cylinder provides the go juice. And unlike the 40 year old’s 15-inch steel rim setup, the new GSR gets serious footing with black “Tornado” 19-inch alloy wheels and 235/40 rubbers.
I think they look “ok” and 200 hp ain’t bad in the little two door. Can’t owning one, however they are going to be limited to 200!!!
I have often wondered why they did not produce a ‘utilitarian’ version of the new Beetle like the intention of the original car. Perhaps us Americans can no longer muster the strength to roll down a window, or lift up the door lock plunger, but I would love to see a Beetle with a radio as the only accessory that sells for $15,000.
I recently heard on one of my car show podcasts (Motorman, I think) that VW was looking into a cost reduced Diesel car that would get approx 50MPG city, seat two people, and cost $6,000. The study showed it was feasible only if there were no government regulations. Air Bags, ABS, and Stability Control added almost $3,000 to the price, and then the added weight of the saftey features brought the MPG down 30%.
I guess VW can never again build a ‘peoples car’……