The bubbly cute Volkswagen Beetle has morphed into a different bug. This next-generation presentation looks dramatically different with its elongated front to rear stance. After 13 years, the Beetle is also lower and wider now. But beyond the cosmetic changes, the 2012 Beetle is buzzing. There’s more engine zest, and the car’s demeanor is more powerful. (No flower power, though, as the plastic dashboard bud vase was clipped in the interior makeover.) The cabin looks snazzy with painted exterior trim accents on the dash, door panels, and elsewhere. A Fender premium audio system, a sunroof that’s 80% bigger than the predecessor, keyless entry with push button start, navigation as well as other spiffy features are available.

On the power score, the front wheel drive Beetle offers three engine choices: a 2.5-liter, 170 horsepower 5-cylinder (an additional 20 horsepower versus the previous 2.5-liter 5-cylinder); a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder; and a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder diesel. Beetle has a strut-type front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs. Ride and handling is very sport-orientated. With the 50/50 split-fold rear seat (a new feature) in the upright position, there is more than 15 cubic feet of trunk space. Fold the rear seat, and the stow-space expands to nearly 30 cubic feet. When fitted with 2.5-liter 5-cylinder and 6-speed automatic transmission, the mpg fuel estimates are 22 city/29 highway. Base price of Beetle starts at $18,995.