Volkswagen went way back to the drawing board with its reimagining of the 2012 Beetle. The new Beetle - which is not to be called a "New Beetle" - draws its inspiration from the original car of 1938, but with a lower, flatter roofline. This gives the car a more aggressive stance.

Base trims come nicely equipped with cruise control, keyless entry, 3-color ambient lighting, 6-way adjustable and heated front seats and a 50/50 split folding rear seat. On the technology front, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and a media device interface with iPod cable are also standard. Base models can be equipped with a powered panoramic sunroof and a Fender premium sound system and navigation.

Turbo models add a rear spoiler, painted 4-wheel disc brakes with red calipers behind special 18-inch Twister alloy wheels, variable electromechanical power steering, front MacPherson struts and a Cross Differential System, which helps prevent inside wheelspin when cornering. Inside, accents such as brushed aluminum-look pedal covers, sport seats, the 8-speaker sound system of the base car, cloth seating and special interior trim pieces.

Safety comes standard as well in all 2012 Beetles, with anti-lock brakes, dual front airbags and combined curtain and side front seat airbags.