Chicago auto show: Fuel-efficient Volkswagen Beetle TDI making debut

Volkswagen is upping the Beetle’s fuel efficiency by reinstating its diesel engine. The 2013 VW Beetle TDI is set to make its debut this week at the Chicago auto show, bringing back fuel-efficient technology unavailable in the Beetle since 2006.

The 2.0-liter direct-injection diesel is rated at 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, and is expected to deliver as much as 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. It can be paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch (DSG) automatic transmission. Volkswagen claims the DSG feels like an automatic to the driver, but offers the responsiveness and economy of a manual. We've driven some of VW's DSG-equipped cars and came away very impressed.

The more fuel-efficient TDI rounds out the Beetle lineup, which also includes the 2.5-liter five-cylinder and turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engines.

The 2013 Beetle gets a more sporty and sleek roofline complemented by a lower, wider stance. The TDI’s exterior distinctions include 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and a chrome trim line that caps the top of the door. Inside is an additional instrument cluster with oil-temperature and turbo-boost gauges along with a stopwatch, unique to the TDI.

The Beetle TDI is available in three trim levels: the base TDI, a sunroof-equipped TDI or a top-of-the-line model with sunroof, sound and navigation.

Pricing for the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI will be announced when it hits showrooms this summer.

You can find more coverage of the Chicago auto show at autoweek.com.