More Beetles at lower prices

THE 21st century version of the original people's car will soon become available in Australia at a price a lot more people can afford.

Volkswagen Group Australia, the new factory-owned distributor, plans to introduce a 1.6-litre version of the retro three-door New Beetle for under $30,000.

At the other end of the scale it will also be adding the Beetle turbo to the range in September for a retail price under $40,000. But we won't be getting the newly announced V5 Beetle, which is actually quicker than the turbo.

VGA currently offers only the 2.0-litre Beetle, which retails for $34,690 in five-speed manual form, or $36,790 as a four-speed automatic.

VGA also plans to expand the model offerings, with two specification levels of both the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre Beetle models.

"What's happened with the Beetle is we've sold a lot considering the price," said VGA managing director Peter Nochar this week.

"But I think a big market is under $30,000 and if we can bridge that price gap then we'll have a big volume on our hands."Volkswagen sold 1328 New Beetles in Australia in 2000 but Mr Nochar believes sales volume can be driven beyond 2000 per annum.

"I propose having two 1.6 models, two 2.0-litre models and the turbo, and then going up in steps so people have choices either about engine size or specification," Mr Nochar said.

The up-spec 1.6 would reflect current 2.0-litre equipment levels, which include twin airbags, ABS, air-conditioning, remote central locking, power windows and front-side airbags. The 2.0-litre "plus" would add alloy wheels and a sunroof.

The Beetle turbo will be available as both a manual and auto and is expected to be well specified. It is expected to arrive by September with the full line-up in place by the end of 2001.

The 1.6-litre engine produces 75kW and is fitted with a variable intake manifold. The 1.8T produces 110kW and has a claimed top speed of 203km/h and a 0-100km/h time of 9.0 seconds. One unique external feature of this model is the rear spoiler, which extends or retracts according to speed.

VGA is considering a similar range philosophy for the popular Golf five-door, adding an up-spec version of the 1.6-litre GL and a down-spec version of the 2.0-litre GLE.

The GL currently retails for $25,990 and the GLE $31,790 in manual form. There is also the possibility of a 150kW 25th anniversary GTi which is currently being developed in Germany.

Before then, however, VGA will add the V6 4Motion Bora to the range in July, with pricing expected to be around $55,000. It will top off the Bora range, which currently comprises the front-wheel drive, 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 2.3-litre V5.

One car we definitely will not be seeing is the small Lupo, which VGA has scratched off its wanted list.