VW iBeetle

The Volkswagen iBeetle does deeper integration with the Apple iPhone, hence the “i”.  The iBeetle is Volkswagen’s newest Beetle and comes with an iPhone docking station right in the middle of the dashboard.  Read on for more details of this Apple and VW collaboration.

What makes this iPhone friendly car different than other manufacturers with an iPhone/iPod dock?  First of all, it was co-developed with Apple. It isn’t simply a place to rest your iPhone that has a synch/charge cable attached.  This iMashup allows for the usage of many of the iPhone’s functions.  iBeetle users can make use of hands-free calls, music, and navigation.  Additional features include  an app that makes Spotify (streaming music) functions easy to use while driving, a gas-mileage trainer, an advanced on-board instrumentation, a text-to-speech message reader that works with Facebook and text messages, photos, and more.

Some other non-iPhone related bits include 18-inch alloy Galvano Grey alloy and chrome wheels, Galvano Grey side mirrors and trim panels, chrome iBeetle badges, and black door plates with the iBeetle signature.  Color choices for the iBeetle include Reflex Silver, Platinum Grey, Candy White, Oryx White Mother of Pearl Effect, Black Monochrome, and Deep Black Pearl Effect.

Expect to see the iBeetle in early 2014.