Everyone thought the...

Everyone thought the Ragster hinted at the next-generation Beetle, but Auto Express has learned the car, driven in issue 842, is on the verge of getting the go-ahead in limited numbers. And it could be on sale by summer 2006.

Unveiled at January"s Detroit Motor Show, the production version will stay true to the concept"s California-inspired styling. Inside, the Ragster is likely to retain the small rear seats that fold forward to create a truck-like load bay - ideal for stashing surf or ski gear.

Other novelties include a flat-bottom steering wheel complete with controls for opening and closing the roof, plus a retro-style dash-mounted rear view mirror. But while the Beetle MkII will share most of its components with the new VW Golf, the Ragster will be based on the current Bug. That will represent a huge cost saving for VW - but could mean owners get a car with dynamics which are no match for its looks.

And there"s more bad news: the Ragster is unlikely to come to the UK because low right-hand-drive demand will make it too expensive to produce. Volkswagen Individual, Wolfsburg"s specialist arm, is tipped to handle the model"s production.

The Ragster"s new lights, flatter bumpers and edgy wheelarches will make their way on to the facelifted Beetle, which is set to arrive in September. These changes mean that although the new Bug will retain its famous silhouette, it will look far more muscular. Our sources say VW is keen to shake off the Beetle"s "girl"s car" image.