Volkswagen New Beetle Rsi

Super Beetle Study Packs Serious Muscle

DETROIT - During a press conference here Monday introducing the New Beetle 1.8T, Ferdinand Piech, Chairman of Volkswagen AG, unveiled this sports car study based on the incredibly popular Bug. Called the New Beetle Rsi, VW representatives more often referred to the vehicle as the Super Beetle.

The Super Beetle's fenders have been widened 5.5 inches, and connected front and rear by bulging side skirts. A massive front apron complete with auxiliary headlights and a substantial rear valance with dual-exhaust outlets provide muscularity to the design. A large spoiler and huge 18-inch wheels and tires complete the look.

Powered by a V6 engine, the Super Beetle has a six-speed manual transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The interior has been revised, with a large tachometer serving as the focal point of the gauge pack. A digital speedometer tracks speed, while additional gauges reside in the headliner. Carbon and aluminum are used extensively in the Rsi's interior details.

Volkswagen has not decided whether or not such a car should be built.