The Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept a few hours before the Detroit Show

Beetle fans will surely have in mind right now those 1970s models built for off-roading by American Bruce Meyers. They were Beetles with several modifications, the most notable being a fibreglass body, raised suspension, giant wheels and a roll cage. Volkswagen is putting the same philosophy back on the table, this time applied to its most recent Beetle, with the Beetle Dune Concept.

The modern version of those beloved Beetles is based on the R-Line version of the current Beetle. The body has been raised by 5 cm and features a pair of skis on the roof, hinting at its adventurous character.

The powertrain is the same configuration as the R-Line model: a 2-litre TSI with 210 hp, coupled to a six-speed DSG gearbox. It also has the same electronic differential, which could be modified for off-road use. This model could go into production in the future, although Volkswagen has not yet confirmed anything.

Other models the German brand plans to present in Detroit are the Golf R for the American market and the Passat Bluemotion Concept. The latter offers a small petrol engine for very low consumption, similar to its diesel-powered siblings.

Via | Km77