Volkswagen has confirmed its new Beetle Dune will cost from £21,300 OTR when it goes on sale, April 5.

That’s for the petrol version, with diesel variants starting from £23,805 OTR. Available in Hatchback or Cabriolet versions, VW has taken inspiration from customised original Beetles’ - particularly the ‘Baja Bugs’ associated with west coast America. With a ride height raised 10 mm compared with the standard car, the new Beetle Dune is designed to offer a new dimension to the existing Beetle line-up. The rugged looks are further enhanced with 18-inch ‘Mythos’ alloy wheels, front and rear wheelarch extensions and bold new bumper designs.

The Sandstorm Yellow metallic and Dark Bronze metallic in particular have been developed exclusively for the Beetle Dune. Other colour options include Deep Black pearlescent, Black (non-metallic) and Pure White (non-metallic). Parts of the dash and door panels also share the exterior body colour.

A 1.2-litre petrol TSI engine develops 105 PS and is available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearbox. The hatch model accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 11.3 seconds. The 2.0-litre TDI develops 150 PS and comes with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed auto DSG gearboxes, and in the hatch model reaches 62 mph in 9.2 seconds. Top speed vary from 110 mph for the petrol manual to 124 mph for the diesel manual.

Fuel economy ranges from 51.4 mpg (combined) for the 1.2 TSI manual to 62.8 mpg (combined) for the 2.0 TDI manual while CO2 emissions range from 117 g/km to 127 g/km depending on engine and gearbox choice. 

Styling highlights include a large silver-framed central air inlet and a black honeycomb grille. In profile, the black wheel well and body extensions contrast with the paint colours. The black side trim strips – stylised ‘Beetle running boards’ – and ‘Dune’ badging underscore the dynamic image of the latest Beetle, says VW. At the rear, a large spoiler and new LED lights create a ‘futuristic look’.

Inside, extensive use of contrast ‘Turmeric’ stitching on the sport seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel and parking brake grip help define the new Dune while contrasting areas of the seat system, door trim panels, roof pillars and headlining are finished in black.

Based on the existing 'Design' trim level means a ‘comprehensive selection’ of technology and creature comforts as standard including a Composition Media system with 6.5-inch touch-screen with Bluetooth telephone connection, DAB digital radio receiver, dash-mounted single CD player and eight speakers. Standard-fit technology also includes a Light and Sight pack comprising auto dimming rear-view mirror, automatic headlights and rain sensing wipers, while convenience is enhanced by ultrasonic parking sensors front and rear. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) fitted as standard and the Cabriolet has rollover protection. In addition, all Beetles have Isofix child seat preparation for two rear child seats, tyre pressure loss indicator and a comprehensive suite of airbags.

Deliveries of the new Beetle Dune will begin in June 2016.