VW Beetle: Stunner deserves 'R' power

Large five-spoke 20-inch alloys look good on the Beetle R concept. Photo / Supplied

If the concept appeals this sporty Beetle is likely get the Scirocco turbo

The Volkswagen Beetle R Concept is a stunning look at what a sporty version of the Beetle would look like - in line with the existing Scirocco R and Golf R models.

There's no word on power under the bonnet, but VW executives at the Frankfurt show said "the Beetle could demonstrate a performance potential similar to that of the Golf R and Scirocco R".

That suggests the same 195kW 2-litre turbo engine will be fitted when it makes production, although there's no word yet on whether it will use front or four-wheel drive.

Impossible to miss were the large five-spoke 20-inch alloys, a first on an R car. The bodywork has been widened by 30mm front and rear, and vents have been added to the bonnet.

At the rear there's a prominent diffuser for added downforce, with twin exhausts either side, and a much-larger-than-standard roof spoiler.

On the inside R-branded sports seats are finished in grey leather, while high gloss black inserts add a more premium feel.

A sprinkling of R logos complete the look.

A spokesman for VW said: "We've had an extremely positive reaction to this car so far, but as always with these things we're waiting to gauge public reaction before giving it the green light."

Also on the stand was a standard Polo 1.2 TSI fitted with an R-line bodykit, and the Polo R World Rally Car - fuelling rumours that a Polo R production car is just around the corner.