2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Ragster Concept

Inside, the retro 'rod theme continues with a makeover of the New Beetle's cockpit. Instantly noticeable are the new, heavily

Inside, the retro 'rod theme continues with a makeover of the New Beetle's cockpit. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, American Auto Press)

bolstered racing seats. Likewise, the door linings and portions of the dashboard are trimmed in dark brown '6 PM' leather, a shade which first appeared on the mid-engined Concept R. VW's engineers also integrated the controls for the roof, as well as a starter button into a radical new three-spoke steering wheel. Dash-mounted rear view mirrors, a billet aluminum shifter knob and chrome-ringed air vents round out the driver-focused dash.

For the Ragster, VW transformed the rear quarters, turning the car into a 2+2, or so says the German automaker. It's a slightly odd claim to make considering the New Beetle only seats four to begin with, and those in the rear hardly experience much spaciousness.

Just the same, the Ragster is a two-seater under normal conditions, with the rear half acting as an enlarged, flat-faced trunk

VW's engineers envisioned the Ragster to be the perfect vehicle for two. (Photo: Volkswagen of America)

finished in body color-keyed plastic. VW's engineers envisioned the Ragster to be the perfect vehicle for two, with plenty of room for stashing everything from music equipment to wet swim trunks.

If extra space for passengers is needed, however, the Ragster's cargo bay floor features a pair of folding jump seats. The seats are lined in the same dark brown leather as up front, but their design appears to leave much to be desired in terms of comfort - there's barely any legroom in back. A white, floor-mounted center console links the two areas of the cabin together.