<Tr> <Th> Predecessor </Th> <Td> Volkswagen Beetle </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Th> Successor </Th> <Td> Volkswagen Beetle (A5) </Td> </Tr> <P> The Volkswagen New Beetle is a compact car, introduced by Volkswagen in 1997, drawing heavy inspiration from the exterior design of the original Beetle . Unlike the original Beetle, the New Beetle has its engine in the front, driving the front wheels, with luggage storage in the rear . Many special editions have been released, such as the Malibu Barbie New Beetle . In May 2010, Volkswagen announced that production of the current body of the New Beetle would cease in 2011 . </P> <P> In 2011 for the 2012 model - year, a new Beetle model, the Beetle (A5), replaced the New Beetle . It is often referred to as the New Beetle as well . </P>

When did the vw beetle body style change