500-HP 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Turbo Leads Bug Invasion at 2012 SEMA Show

2012 SEMA Show

LAS VEGAS — A 500-horsepower 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Turbo leads the Beetle pack into the 2012 SEMA Show.

Formally named the VWvortex Super Beetle Project, the one-off car honors the approaching 75th anniversary of the Beetle.

The VWvortex Super Beetle gets dolled up in a Matte Azure Blue Metallic exterior wrap. The phenomenal power boost comes courtesy of an APR Stage IV GTX Turbocharger system. Other details include an updated fuel system and a high-performance intercooler system. The special Beetle is also lowered and fitted with a 4Motion all-wheel-drive system from the Volkswagen Golf R.

The cabin gets Recaro Sportster CS seats.

Other Beetle offerings at the SEMA Show include a European Car magazine Volkswagen Beetle "Beach Battle-Cruiser" that gets a large Revo Technik turbocharger, a software upgrade and intake and exhaust system. The beach buggy gets a deployable shower system, custom Fuchs Performance 19-inch wheels and a military-look cabin.

FMS Automotive's 1956 and 2012 Beetle models "pay tribute to two definitive generations of the iconic Beetle," said Volkswagen of America in a statement.

The 1956 Beetle is a ground-up restoration that features an upgraded powertrain, a full leather interior and body modifications. The 2012 Beetle gets a two-tone exterior paint treatment.

The Rotiform Beetle gets a Matte Gray Aluminum vinyl wrap for a classic appearance. It also gets concave wheels and a new rear axle to accommodate an air suspension system from Air Lift.

The Beetle may be taking center stage at VW's SEMA stand, but the Volkswagen Golf R has not been forgotten. The H&R Golf R showcar gets a new suspension, a lowered ride height and classic silver 19-inch BBS Super RS wheels that are popular with VW enthusiasts.

Edmunds says: Unfortunately for Beetle lovers, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Do not expect to see a 500-hp Beetle in your driveway anytime soon.