Diesel Beetle on the way

7 January 2002: VW's Beetle is to go diesel, with an imminent introduction of a version using the 100bhp 1.9-litre unit already in use in the Bora and Golf.

This will extend the range of the nostalgia car with futuristic looks, which ias already available in Ireland using 1.6- 2- and 1.8-litre T forms with outputs from 102bhp to 150bhp. Automatic transmission versions are available in all petrol engine versions.

Meanwhile, a 180bhp turbo Beetle using the 1.8-litre powerhouse from the Audi TT has been made available in the US, and may well come to Europe if demand on this side of the water is strong enough. The car is capable of a 7sec 0-62mph.

Beetle prices in Ireland range from e22,535-e27,435.

January 2002