Volkswagen Beetle R: new-age superbug spied

Big brakes and bright red calipers behind signature black R alloy wheels are not-so-subtle hints that this test car is something a little more special than a standard Beetle.

Our spy photographers said the sound emanating from the Volkswagen Beetle R prototype’s dual exhaust outlets also betrayed it as a more hardcore variant, citing a deeper, sportier note.

They believe Volkswagen is not planning to hold back with the Beetle R, claiming the hot-hatch will utilise the new-generation Golf R’s turbocharged 221kW/380Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and all-wheel-drive system.

While the matt grey paint might be a step too far, the production car is expected to feature more aggressive exterior styling than the optional R-Line design package fitted to this prototype.

The Volkswagen Beetle R is expected to be debut in late 2014 before reaching international showrooms in 2015.

Volkswagen first revealed its intentions to offer a new-age superbug in 2011 when it unveiled the Beetle R concept at the Frankfurt motor show.

Earlier this year, Volkswagen Australia’s then-boss, Anke Koeckler, said the local division would “certainly” consider offering a Beetle R if one was made available to our market.