Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited-Edition was just unveiled at this year's Chicago Auto Show paying tribute to the 40-year old sporty version of the classic Volkswagen Beetle. The original one was named GSR (Gelb Schwarzer Renner or "Yellow Black Racer") and was based on a 1303S.

Of course it was immediately recognized because of its striking colour. However, only 3500 units were produced and this fact makes them now collectors' items.

Now, at the Chicago Auto Show, Volkswagen pays homage to that 1970s' model with the world debut of the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited Edition. The new version retains the striking yellow and black theme, but also includes an the award-winning EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder TSI® engine that generates 210 horsepower (155 kW).

As the historic model, the new one has a yellow bodyshell, while the hood, trunklid, and bumpers were finished in matte black. The look is rounded out by black trim strips underneath the side windows and black rocker panels.

The new version of this Volkswagen however adds black exterior mirror caps, new yellow/black stripes with "GSR" lettering above the side skirts and a large rear spoiler, 19-inch "Tornado" aluminum-alloy wheels shod with 235/40 tires, black-painted brake calipers.

Furthermore, the GSR includes unique interior with black-trimmed leather sport seats and high-grip leather steering wheel with contrasting yellow stitching, R-Line dash pad, a GSR shift lever, a leather handbrake lever, and black floormats with contrasting yellow embroidery. A badge on the steering wheel is marked with the special-edition number (1 through 3500) to emphasize the uniqueness of the car.

As mentioned already, the new GSR generates up to 210 horsepower (155 kW) and has 207 pound-feet (280 Nm) of torque. This enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 6.6 seconds and to reach an electronically limited Vmax of 130 mph. The engine is matched to a six-speed manual transmission, but a dual-clutch DSG® six-speed automatic transmission will be an option.

As a matter of fact, the GSR is based on the Beetle Turbo with Sunroof and Sound model. This means that it includes a wide range of equipment: Fender® Premium Audio System; a panoramic sunroof; Keyless access with push-button start; Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs; LED license-plate lighting; heatable front seats; Bluetooth® connectivity; a Media Device Interface (MDI) with iPod® cable; three-color ambient lighting; aluminum-alloy pedals; and three auxiliary instruments that include a clock with a stopwatch function and a boost gauge.

Just like its predecessor, the new limited-edition model will be produced in only 3500 units. 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR will go on sale this autumn and its pricing will be announced closer to launch.

Volkswagen Beetle GSR Limited-Edition (2013)
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Source: Volkswagen