What's the news?
ABT Sportsline has revealed its tuning and modification packages for the 2.0 TDI Volkswagen Beetle. The German tuner has already produced modifications for the petrol models but expects the torque and economy of the diesel to appeal to high mileage drivers.
Exterior
A range of styling changes has been made by ABT to give the Beetle a more aggressive look. Covers for the head lamps give the front end a 'fierce' appearance. There is also a new front spoiler, rear skirt and twin oval exhausts. A carbon-look decal set is available too. Customers can choose from a range of alloy wheels in 18- to 20-inch sizes.
Interior
Nothing too radical inside, but ABT can supply logoed floor mats and an aluminium/leather gear lever for the Beetle.
Mechanicals
The ABT Power ECU upgrade takes the output of the TDI engine from 140- to 170hp. Torque is increased by 50- to 370Nm. Larger front brakes are fitted and the suspension features upgraded ABT springs.
Anything else?
ABT claims that its modifications cut the 0-62mph time from 9.4- to 8.8 seconds. The changes are said to make the Beetle more fun to use whilst remaining environmentally friendly, although no economy figures have been quoted.
John Lambert - 3 Aug 2012