Volkswagen Prices Beetle and Begins Taking Orders in the UK

Volkswagen has been touting the Beetle in the United States, but it has yet to make a push in the United Kingdom. That is because the Beetle isn't slated to go on sale in the UK until next Spring.

Today the company gets one step closer to that launch with a pricing announcement and opening of the order book. Orders, for a vehicle people have yet to drive? Yes, it does happen, surprisingly.

The car's base price starts at £16,490, which in USD at current exchange rates comes out to around $26,000! Startling. The new Beetle will launch with two-engines at first. The base model gets a 1.2-liter TSI making 105 horsepower, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It includes standard keyless entry, air conditioning and CD player.

The more upscale Design trim adds Bluetooth with iPod connectivity, fog lights, an alarm system (that isn't standard?!), leather-wrapped steering wheel, body color interior trim and 17-inch alloy-wheels.

For those wanting more power, there is a 1.4-liter TSI making 160 hp; it comes with asix-speed manual. The 1.4-liter is able to be paired with Design and Sport trims. Sport includes: cruise control, dual-zone electronic climate control, privacy glass, sports seats, reverse warning system and a glossy black dash board and interior door panels. The exterior is differentiated by 18-inch alloy wheels and glossy black mirrors.

Later on in the Beetle's launch VW will extend the lineup with a 1.6-liter TDI BlueMotion diesel making 105HP, a 2.0-liter TDI diesel with 140HP and a high-end 2.0-liter TSI four. We get that engine currently in the U.S, and it pushes out 200 hp. The base model will also be able to be ordered with a six-speed manual by the end of next year.