The Japanese Version of the Beetle GSR

Volkswagen will introduce the "The Beetle Racer," a limited edition car that reinterprets a legendary special model for the modern era, based on the "The Beetle Turbo," and will begin accepting online reservation requests from November 13th.The Beetle TurboThe Beetle Racer, known overseas as the "The Beetle GSR," will be introduced to Japan. It is based on the "The Beetle Turbo" and will be available for reservation requests online starting November 13th.


The Racer is powered by the same 2.0-liter TSI engine found in the "The Beetle Turbo," delivering a maximum output of 211ps and peak torque of 280Nm. It is paired with a 6-speed DSG transmission and will be available in right-hand drive.

As the name "Racer" suggests, this is not just a sporty Beetle, but features equipment that emphasizes its character as a spartan sports car, both inside and out. It sports custom bumpers, spoilers, and a rear diffuser. The suspension is upgraded with 19-inch alloy wheels, three inches larger than the standard model, fitted with 235/40R19 low-profile tires. The brake calipers, visible through the 10 spokes, gleam in silver. The interior also comes standard with exclusive fabric sports seats and a three-spoke leather steering wheel with yellow stitching.


Additionally, it includes features comparable to the "The Beetle Turbo," such as sports suspension, the "XDS" electronic differential lock, bi-xenon headlights, a genuine navigation system, and a triple-gauge cluster.

The "The Beetle Racer" is a special model that pays homage to the "1303s GSR," released in 1973 based on the original Beetle (Type 1).


This "1303s GSR" was a powerful model equipped with a 1,600cc engine, an increase from the standard model's 1,300cc, boosting its maximum output from 50ps to 75ps. It also featured sporty enhancements like sports seats and a leather steering wheel.

The "GSR" designation, which the model bears, is an acronym for the German phrase "Gelb-Schwarze Renner" (which translates to "Yellow/Black Racer" in English). For its introduction in Japan, only the word "Racer" was adopted to succinctly represent the model's character.


The "The Beetle Racer" (also known as "The Beetle GSR") will be produced in a global limited run of 3,500 units, with only 100 units available in Japan. Priced at 3.94 million yen, it is 480,000 yen more than the "Turbo" model. It is available in a single color combination: "Saturn Yellow/Black," echoing its overseas name's origin. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in March 2014.


Additionally, the display vehicle will be showcased starting November 22nd at theTokyo Motor Showand will subsequently tour the motor shows in Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka.

Volkswagen the Beetle Racer
Body Dimensions | Length 4,285 x Width 1,815 x Height 1,495 mm
Engine | 1,998 cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Intercooler Turbo
Maximum Output | 155 kW (211 ps) / 5,300-6,200 rpm
Maximum Torque | 280 Nm (28.6 kgm) / 1,70-5,200 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Automatic (6-speed DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Tires Front/Rear | 235/40R19
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Solid Discs
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 13.4 km/ℓ
Price | 3.94 million yen

Reservation Website for "The Beetle Racer" Purchase Inquiries

http://web.volkswagen.co.jp/racer/2284.html


Volkswagen Customer Center

0120-993-199