I've got some drawings lying around here on my version of a new, New Beetle.
Here's my wish-list for a new Beetle:
1. Just call it Beetle (as in 'the Beetle' or 'a Beetle')
2. Keep the same interior space; I think it's perfect
3. Add "suicide" doors to the back, but hide the door handles so it looks like a 2 door
4. Move the entire roof arch back a couple of inches. This will reduce the long dash and improve rear seat headspace. There may even be more trunk space.
5. Push the technology envelope. If VW ever does a Hybrid, this is the first one they should do. Have the Bluetec engine available from day 1. Trounce other manufacturers and offer the first hybrid convertible, or, better yet, diesel convertible (they say the Bluetec has no smelly exhaust)
6. Push the design envelope. This should be the "iMac" of cars. Offer new and exciting interior materials. Heck, instead of trying to reduce shiny materials, play them up! I could see whole cetner consoles in the "iMac/iPod" high-gloss plastic. Offer styling packages so there is some customization directly from the factory (or port).
7. Talk to long-term NB owners. There's a reason we have kept our cars a long time, find out why. I would be ELATED if VW called me and said "tell us about your car."
8. Copy Mini; allow owners to custom order NBs. I know this one is tough, and people have been asking for it for a long time, but find a way to do it VW.
9. Offer a full-glass roof
10. Offer a folding canvas ragtop
11. This may seem a contradiction, but keep the car simple. I am thrilled when I get in my 98 and there are just a few switches and knobs, the radio, and the car. It makes me appreciate all the gadgets in my GLI, but it also makes driving Speed a more simple, basic, and enjoyable time.
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