After the leaked photos of VW’s Beetle Dune Concept, we now have official details about the study, which was revealed today at the Detroit Auto Show.

Based on the Beetle R-Line, the Dune Concept is longer (+0.5in/12mm), wider (+22in/559mm) and taller (+0.8in/20mm) though, while also having two inches (51mm) of additional ground clearance.

VW says the study “shows the potential for a new production version of the sportiest Beetle ever”, which we translate as it’s soon coming to a dealer near you…

Featured in an “Arizona” yellow-orange metallic paint, with the two-part wheel arch extensions offset in black, the Beetle Dune Concept rides on 19-inch alloy wheels shod with 255/45 tires. It comes with a new hood that sports a raised center section flanked by air vents, while the redesigned apron has a large central air intake. Semi-circular LED foglights round out the front-end changes.

At the rear, the Dune features a roof spoiler and a trunk lid that work together to accommodate a pair of skis, as you can see in the photos. Even with skis mounted, the trunk lid can be opened at any time. Despite its off-road looks, the Beetle Dune is front-wheel-drive.

On the inside, the Beetle Dune Concept uses the “Arizona” exterior color on the dashboard, while a handle has replaced the bin on the passenger side. The center of the dashboard is dominated by 7.7-inch AMOLED touchscreen, which operates the infotainment system. The seats feature a sporty design, with their outer surfaces being wrapped in “Titan Black leather”, and the center section in “Ceramique” colored “Gobi” breathable sport fabric.

By Dan Mihalascu

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