The Beetle is one of the most successful cars ever, with 21.5 million units sold between 1938 and 2003. Now, the successor to the icon is available on the Hong Kong market.

The unveiling was conducted by Thorsten Jaede, managing director of Volkswagen Hong Kong. He said the design of the Beetle is based on the concept of "A New Original."

The Beetle is an icon of the Volkswagen brand, and the most recognizable automotive design in the world. It was altered to give dynamic proportions a high priority. It's longer, wider and lower, giving a more masculine and dynamic appearance.

Power

When it comes to engines, all signs point toward sustainability.

The new Beetle is powered by a 1.2 TSI engine. The turbocharged unit produces peak output of 105 horsepower at 5,000rpm and maximum torque of 175Nm from 1,550 to 4,100rpm.

With the standard seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox, the sprint from zero to 100km/h takes just 10.9 seconds and top speed is 180km/h.

This engine features two valves per cylinder and extensive use of lightweight materials such as magnesium. The carbon dioxide emissions figure is 137g/km.

Inside the cabin, certain features, such as the glove box and color accent panels hark back to the original. The Beetle now offers a driving experience that is a lot sportier. Every feature is within easy reach.

Safety

As well as being economical and environmentally sound, the Beetle is also built to be one of the safest cars on the road thanks not only to features such as standard ESP and four airbags but also a laser-welded and galvanized body structure.

It scored a five-star rating at the recent Euro NCAP tests, offering complete peace of mind during your journeys.

But, to me, the biggest change from the original Beetle is that the rear engine has been replaced by an ample boot!

Motoring editor Roger Boschman has been in Hong Kong since 1974 and has raced his own car on Macau's Guia Circuit.