What is it? With a "design study" car at the LA Auto Show,  Volkswagen presented an R version of the redesigned Beetle. This concept car pushes the Beetle beyond the styling and performance of its current hot road, the 200-hp Beetle Turbo.

First off, the styling is more dramatic. The front and rear bumpers are wider by 1.2 inches and both bumpers have air exhaust vents and a larger rear spoiler than the Turbo. The bodywork is accented by 20-inch wheels and blue brake calipers.

Inside, the R has race-inspired seats wrapped in black leather. The cabin is further dressed with an R logo on the seats with blue piping and blue floor mats.

Taking a similar, bold approach, the Golf R goes on sale in January.  No word on whether the Beetle R will make it to production.