Special Volkswagen Beetle Turns Fins on the Ocean Floor

BALTIMORE, MD. (08/20/2012)(readMedia)-- The VW Beetle for sale at dealership showrooms is clearly designed for driving, not diving in the ocean, but a special interpretation of the vehicle got to do a little bit of both for the Discovery Channel's 25th annual "Shark Week." For the episodes that aired last week, Volkswagen and shark expert Luke Tipple teamed up to design a mobile observation cage in the iconic shape of the Beetle. They then dropped it to the ocean floor, where it was driven among the finned stars of the week's programming.

Though it is shaped by protective aluminum piping instead of sheet metal, the Volkswagen Beetle Shark Observation Cage still bears a close resemblance to its land-loving brethren. Tipple told the New York Times that the dimensions of the cage are only a quarter-inch off in some areas from the production vehicle, while its 19-inch Tornado alloy wheels are available to everyday Beetle buyers. Instead of using one of Volkswagen's fuel-efficient drivetrains, however, the Beetle-shaped observation cage swaps in a pair of propellers and an on-board air system.

"'Shark Week' has been running on TV for longer than 'The Simpsons,' so it's only fitting that the Discovery Channel feature the longest-running car model to celebrate the 25th anniversary," said Michael Coleman, general manager of Russel Volkswagen, a VW dealer in Baltimore, Md. "Following its redesign for the 2012 model year, the Beetle now has a bolder, sportier look, and the car's involvement in 'Shark Week' reflects the sense of adventure that its new style evokes."

While drivers can't ride their Beetle out into the open sea, they will soon be able to enjoy new models in the open air. Early next year, the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible will launch, marking the first time a Beetle drop-top has been available since the 2010 model year. Though the next-generation Beetle Convertible won't be revealed until the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, it will feature the same three engine choices as the coupe model.

Available with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine, a 2.5-liter five-cylinder gas engine or a 2.0-liter TDI clean diesel powerplant, the 2013 Beetle Convertible will offer a solid mix of power and fuel efficiency. The turbocharged, gasoline-powered 2.0-liter will produce 200 horsepower while still returning up to 30 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the 2013 Beetle Convertible TDI will be the United States' most fuel-efficient drop-top, returning 41 mpg on the highway.

The TDI trim of the hardtop 2013 Beetle is arriving at dealerships this month, featuring the same fuel economy as the upcoming diesel convertible model. Set in motion by 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI will also come packed with standard features, including leatherette seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button start, ambient lighting and iPod connectivity.

"Volkswagen's TDI engines allow drivers to get very impressive fuel economy without losing any response when they press down on the pedal," added Coleman. "That technology is a perfect fit for the latest Beetle, because it allows owners to take full advantage of the car's efficient size, all while utilizing the improved driving dynamics created during the recent redesign."

About Russel Volkswagen:

Committed to building lasting relationships with Volkswagen customers in the Baltimore area one family at a time, Russel Volkswagen backs up its wide inventory of new and used VW vehicles with a no-hassle buying environment. Their team of factory-trained technicians, parts experts and knowledgeable sales professionals goes the distance to ensure every customer experience is a positive one. Visit their Baltimore, Maryland Volkswagen dealership at 6624 Baltimore National Pike for a test drive, or browse their inventory online at www.russelvw.com. They can also be reached by phone at 866-540-5268 and found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarylandVW.