The recently launched Volkswagen Beetle is now available with a 2.0-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine or a 2.0-litre TDI diesel. It joins the two existing smaller-capacity units in the range, which are the 1.2 and 1.4-litre TSI petrols.

The 2.0-litre TSI – which will only available on ‘Sport’ and the new range-topping ‘Turbo’ special-edition models - produces 197bhp and returns a claimed combined 38.2mpg when fitted with VW’s six-speed manual gearbox. The new variant’s 0-62mph time of 7.5 seconds and top speed of 139mph makes the 2.0-litre TSI the hottest Beetle currently in the range.

The new 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI Beetle oil-burner achieves a claimed 57.6mpg economy figure and emissions of 129g/km of CO2. It will dispatch the 0-62mph sprint in 9.5sec can manage a top speed of 123mph. The 2.0-litre TDI is available in either mid-range ‘Design’ trim, starting at £20,085, or ‘Sport’, which ups the price to £21850. 

Standard equipment on Sport models comprises 18-inch alloys, tinted glass, cruise control, sports seats, parking sensors and two zone electronic climate control. 

‘Turbo’ spec’ – not available on the 2.0-litre TDI - adds ‘Turbo’ decals in either black or silver, as well as black or silver door mirrors and 19-inch alloys. 

The 2.0-litre TSI ‘Sport’ models benefit from additional equipment over the diesels, including four-link rear suspension, twin chromed exhaust pipes, red brake callipers and a body-coloured rear diffuser. 

Prices for the 2.0-litre TSI start from £22,295 for the ‘Sport’ model. Equivalent diesel models start at £21,850.

Tom Harrison