Yorkshire-based Twisted Automotive first made its name with radically modified, personalized versions of the boxy Land Rover Defender. It maintained the British brand's rustic and agrarian exterior while adding totally contemporary powertrains, suspension, and interiors. It's a worldwide phenomenon, and Twisted will gladly manufacture one of their T90 Defenders to your specifications, whether you reside in New York or London. However, if you live in California, Twisted's latest product may be more appealing.
Pleased T' Meet You
The TBug is precisely what it appears to be: a reworked version of the original Baja Bug idea. Cutaway fender flares, hefty BFGoodrich off-road tires, and friendly LED headlamps make it seem like something out of a Pixar movie. It's very cute and full of character. Richard Scarry would have liked it.
Even better—if you're a Volkswagen purist—the TBug embodies the true vintage VW spirit of accomplishing more with less. It has not been converted to turbocharged power or outfitted with an EV drivetrain and large batteries. No, it is essentially an upgraded version of the original air-cooled flat-four producing no more than 80 horsepower. A VW Bug has 80 horsepower, which is sufficient, but it also allows the driver to wring the car's neck on a daily basis. Will there be sand roostertails or dune jumping? You'd better believe it.
A TBug Created for You
Twisted, like its other innovations, will develop the TBug to client specifications, requiring a significant amount of fine-tuning. The manufacturer claims that no two will be the same, so you are truly getting something unique here. Aside from the engine, standard improvements will include a sealed and reinforced chassis, Bilstein dampers for a long-travel suspension, and EMPI Baja wheels.
From there, you may choose from a variety of interior upgrades, as well as paint your dune-hopping Beetle in any bright color you choose. No doubt, the price of one of these will be more restomod air-cooled 911 than classic VeeDub, but owners are sure to be ecstatic about what appears to be a really enjoyable driving experience. Or, as they say in Yorkshire, this little Beetle will make you very happy.