Shown in concept form at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show last fall, the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition made its first appearance in full production guise this week at another German venue, the 2012 Leipzig International Auto Show. Based on the Beetle Turbo, this rock-n-rollin’ sonic boomer sets off unique functional and cosmetic tweaks with a bespoke version of the killer Fender Premium Audio System that was first introduced to American buyers in the 2012 Jetta GLI.
Powered by a 2.0-liter/200-horsepower TFSI four-cylinder engine, the new Beetle Fender Edition is finished in Deep Metallic Black paint and fitted with 18-inch “Disc” aluminum alloy wheels, brushed-chrome mirror housings, bi-xenon headlamps and custom “Fender” logos in the familiar corporate script. Inside, the dash on the Fender Edition is painted to resemble the appearance of a classic Fender sunburst finish and features color-coordinated contrast stitching on the seats.
At the center of the package is a standard Fender Premium Audio System that boasts 400 watts of power and 10-channel amplification that heads to the ears of those riding inside via nine speakers – four tweeters, four mid-range units and one subwoofer – all using proprietary Panasonic speaker technology that delivers true soundstage quality presence and clarity.
The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition will go on sale in Europe later this summer and start turning up in U.S. showrooms this fall. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
