The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR is the remade version of the 1973 special edition Super Beetle. With a production run of only 3,500, half will be sold in the United States and half sold in Europe. The GSR translated to English means Yellow Black Racer and comes equipped with Volkswagen’s new 2.0L turbo four cylinder, outputting 10 more horsepower and achieving better fuel economy. When the Beetle was first redesigned since the original styling, it came with a flower holder and seemed to be geared towards the female buyer, but the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR finally brings a version of the Beetle that a man would be proud to call his own.
TURBO CHARGED ENGINE
The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR has powerful acceleration coming from a turbo charged, four cylinder 2.0L TSI engine. Outputting 210 horsepower, this engine has both a quiet and refined feel which can be attributed to the broad and flat torque tuning. Coupled with the engine is the 6 speed DSG transmission, resulting in a smooth acceleration and super quick gear changes. The pep on this bug matches its racing inspired exterior and propels you from 0-60 mph in a mere 6.6 seconds.
The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR we tested achieved a fuel economy of 9.5 L/100km over 315 km of combined city and highway driving. Unlike the majority of other vehicle consumptions we test, this consumption fits nicely within the specified consumptions of 11.2 L/100km in the city and 7.8 L/100km on the highway. However, it is only fair that we admit the car was driven quite passionately for most of the time.
EXTERIOR
Because the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR is offered solely in the yellow and black colour scheme, it is important for the exterior to portray an aggressive look to match the performance. The GSR definitely succeeds in giving the exterior a racing inspired look through the yellow body with wide black racing stripe, black accents, large rear spoiler, 19 inch rims and dual exhaust. While there’s no mistaking that this is indeed a Beetle, the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR looks ready to race at the track.
INTERIOR
Inside the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR you will notice the vast amount of headroom, the pleasing interior design with high quality materials and the quiet rumble of the muted engine. Although this 4 passenger car is quite roomy for the front passengers, the rear passengers will feel a bit cramped. A hugely surprising aspect of the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR is the amount of rear trunk space (the trunk used to be in the front). The hatchback style trunk offers plenty of room for suit cases, golf clubs or any other large cargo and with the folding rear seating, awkward sized cargo can also be transported.
The well thought out interior offers plenty of storage in many spaces and is also packed full of the latest technology. I am a huge fan of the LED ambient lighting that can be brightened and dimmed or change colors to change the interior feel. Although the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR that was tested was outfitted with the Technology Package, I would have liked to see a USB input for charging devices or connecting music.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Although by reputation one might not consider the VW Beetle a sports car, I challenge anyone that drives the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR to say otherwise. At first glance the aggressively styled exterior will win over both genders and putting the pedal to the metal will dispel any lingering doubts on performance. With the base model 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR starting at $29,995 and only 3,500 being manufactured, you better grab yours fast!
