CHICAGO – Volkswagen takes the wraps off two special-edition Beetles and two special-edition GTI models at the auto show here.
The '14 Beetle GSR debuts this fall in the U.S. and harkens back to the 1970s original, which like the new model had a black-and-yellow paint scheme and interior.
Called the GSR (Gelb Schwarzer Renner or Yellow Black Racer), the older vehicle was based on a 1303S and instantly recognizable by its color scheme, VW says in a statement.
The body of the new model is predominantly yellow, with a black hood, roof and trunk lid.
The '14 Beetle GSR will use the 2.0L turbocharged I-4 TSI engine from the '13 Beetle Turbo and VW Jetta GLI. The mill will make 201 hp and 207 lb.-ft. (281 Nm) of torque at 1,700 rpm in the GSR. A governed top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h) has been set, and 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time is estimated at 6.6 seconds.
Black and yellow stripes with GSR lettering adorns the new model, which has 19-in. "Tornado" aluminum alloy wheels, an upgrade from the 15-in. steel wheels of the original model.
The new Beetle GSR interior is a sophisticated step up from the original model, with a more subtle use of yellow used as stitching on the black leather seats, steering wheel and embroidered on black floor mats.
Badging on the steering wheel lets buyers know which number car they own among the 3,500 limited-edition builds. VW expects half the allotment to be sold in the U.S.
The German auto maker also reveals its R-Line version of the Beetle Convertible here today.
The '14 Beetle Convertible R-Line joins other R-Line variants in VW's U.S. lineup, including the CC and Beetle coupe, as well as the recently added Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line. The convertible rides on 19-in. aluminum alloy wheels with low-profile, all-season tires and shares the Beetle Turbo's sport-tuned suspension.
Bi-Xenon headlights and light-emitting-diode daytime running lights are two visual updates for the Beetle Convertible R-Line. An 8-speaker Fender audio system, keyless access with push-button start and navigation also are standard.
The GTI debuts two new trims at the show for the final model year of the sixth-generation car in the U.S. The GTI Wolfsburg Edition and GTI Driver's Edition come in 4-door body styles and only offer three colors, white, gray or black. Just 2,000 Wolfsburg and 3,000 Driver’s Edition units will be produced for U.S. buyers.
The GTI Wolfsburg edition goes on sale in the first quarter starting at $25,095 for a 6-speed manual model. It includes a retro golf-ball shifter, red-stitched floor mats and 18-in. Laguna wheels. Adding a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic brings the price to $26,195.
The GTI Driver's Edition goes on sale in early second-quarter and builds on the GTI's sunroof and navigation packages by adding partial leather seats. The cars is priced at $29,695 for the manual model and $30,795 for the 6-speed DSG gearbox version.
VW says buyers of the GTI Driver's Edition receive special GTI gear, including a hat and keychain, plus a certificate of authenticity.
