Volkswagen Ragster Concept: Will It See the Light of Day?

If you have ever been to an auto show you probably have enjoyed the many concept vehicles on display. Many of these cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans never make it to the production line, instead they are featured as a way for automakers to gauge consumer reaction as well as to display the company’s engineering and marketing expertise. Still, for those cars that do make it to the assembly line it can be quite a feat once all the feedback from consumers has been determined, expenses from company accountants tabulated, and a marketing campaign set in place. For Volkswagen one car that I hope makes it to the assembly line is the Ragster, a specialized version of the Beetle convertible.

So, what exactly sets the Ragster apart from the atypical Beetle convertible? In one word: much. When I first saw pictures of the Ragster I immediately knew that it was a Beetle. However, its lines pointed more to the original Beetle than to the current model. Not that there is anything inherently wrong with the current design, but the original Beetle is a less of a “hump car” than the arch shaped current model. The Ragster, in effect, borrows styling cues from the original Beetle giving it a combined new/old look. I wish I had a picture to better describe the car, but I don’t. So, please take my word on it, otherwise visit Volkswagen’s site and click on concept cars for a better look.

The roofline looks more original Beetle-like as it drops the arched design for a tapered look [the A pillars have been shortened slightly], akin to the first Beetles. Add in a double racing stripe from the front bumper running straight up the hood to the windshield, new bumpers, trim, head lights and tail lights, and the look is definitely sporty. Reportedly, the concept car features special sporty style bucket seats to round out the sport appearance package. With the inclusion of sport style outside mirrors, the Ragster has a distinctive look certain to please.

The Ragster was shown at various auto shows around the world during 2005 to critical acclaim. Although consumer interest is strong, no decision has been made by the German automaker whether the Ragster will be produced or not. Some have speculated that the redone roofline would be too costly of an undertaking to produce a car at a price that compares favorably with the current Beetle convertible, while others have suggested that a limited production Beetle could sustain a higher price level particularly with fans of the venerable nameplate.

As with so many decisions made by car company administrators, consumer sentiment is sometimes overlooked. In the case of the Ragster, Volkswagen has a winner on its hands. Whether the automaker realizes it or not remains to be seen. In the meantime, your choice remains the current Beetle. Ho hum.