Volkswagen Dune revealed

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Volkswagen has revealed the definitive production version of the Beetle Dune in both coupe and cabriolet bodystyles on the eve of the Los Angeles motor show, where the faux off-roader is set to make its public debut.

Originally unveiled as a concept at the 2014 Detroit motor show, the Beetle Dune receives more rugged looking styling, greater ride height as well as larger wheels and tyres than standard versions of the second-generation modern day Beetle in a move aimed at providing it with similar appeal to Volkswagen's dedicated off-road models.

Yet despite the off-roader inspired design touches, the new model will be sold exclusively with front-wheel drive, owing to the lack of a four-wheel drive option for the Beetle, which is produced at Volkswagen's Puebla plant in Mexico.   

Planned to go on sale in both coupe and cabriolet bodystyles in 2016, but not yet confirmed for local showrooms, the production version of the Beetle Dune adheres closely to the earlier concept. Both cars were styled under the direction of Volkswagen brand design boss, Klaus Bischoff.

Among the styling changes brought to the new two door is a reworked front bumper featuring a prominent trapezoidal shaped central air duct, silver plastic kick plate, an additional air duct below the leading edge of the bonnet as well as revised indicator units and round fog lamps set within black plastic elements either side. 

Further back, the Beetle Dune receives black plastic cladding within the wheel houses, serving to increase the width of the body by 14mm. There are also more prominent sills, decals along the lower sections of the doors and rear fender panel and new 18-inch wheels shod with 235/45 profile tyres.

The rear is distinguished from the standard Beetle by a spoiler mounted below the rear window, unique LED tail lamp graphics and an exclusively styled bumper featuring a silver plastic kick plate within the lower valance panel.

To further enhance the appearance, Volkswagen has also introduced respective 6mm and 7mm increases to the front and rear tracks through the adoption of new wheel carriers. The ride height is also bumped up by 10mm, providing the Dune with greater ground clearance than the standard Beetle.

Inside, the main dashboard panel, door shoulders, piping and stitching on the seats, stitching on the steering and various control surrounds are all finished in the same colour as the exterior.  

The Beetle Dune will be produced with five engines. Included are 77kW 1.2-, 110kW 1.4- and 162kW 2.0-litre petrol units, together with 81kW 1.6- and 110kW 2.0-litre diesels – all carried over from the standard Beetle. Gearbox choices include standard a six-speed manual and an optional six- or seven-speed dual clutch automatic.