Oprah viewers finally getting keys to 2012 Volkswagen Beetle

2012 Volkswagen Beetle

Polarizing though the design may be on the new Volkswagen Beetle and similar retro-based cars, some customers have waited a year for theirs to show up.On October 13, 276 customers took delivery. Due limited availability, it seems reasonable, though this is speculation, that these cars will accrue value after leaving the dealership in similar fashion to the similarly polarizing Toyota Prius. It certainly seems possible that some lucky customers may cash in on this opportunity.

Click here for more news on the Volkswagen Beetle.

Some ‘customers’ are luckier though: Oprah Winfrey, as part of a “Favorite Things” feature on her show, gave away 21 new Beetles this past Thursday. VW America CEO Johnathan Browning officiated the presentation in Orlando Park, Ill.

Refresher: The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is offered with three powertrain choices including a 2.5L gasoline 5-cylinder, 2.0 TDI Clean Diesel and a 2.0L TSI turbocharged gasoline unit.  While a 6-speed manual is standard on the 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TSI, Volkswagen’s DSG 6-speed dual-clutch automatic is available. A 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic is available on the 2.5L models. The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 2.4L 5-cylinder model produces 170-hp / 177 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 5-speed manual, fuel-economy comes in at 22/31 mpg (city/highway) and 22/29 mpg when mated to a 6-speed automatic. The Beetle 2.0 TSI is the sportiest Beetle and is powered by a 2.0 4-cylinder turbo making 200-hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel, is know as the most fuel-efficient Beetle ever. Power comes from a 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel engine making 140-hp / 236 lb-ft of torque. Estimated fuel-economy comes in at 22/40 mpg or 33 mpg combined. Prices start at $19,765.

– By: Sawyer Sutton