HERNDON, VA – Volkswagen debuted a clean diesel TDI version of the latest version of its 21st Century Beetle at the Chicago Auto Show. VW said the new model uses a 2.0L turbocharged, direct-injection clean diesel engine. It’s capable of producing 140 hp and 236 lb. ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or VW’s dual-clutch DSG six-speed automatic. In terms of fuel economy, VW said it expects the new model to achieve 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway.

VW said the Beetle TDI is covered under its no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program. All scheduled maintenance is covered for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty, which is three years or 36,000 miles. Additionally, all current Volkswagen vehicles use synthetic oil, which the automaker said eliminates the need for a 5,000-mile oil change, and allows owners to go farther between scheduled oil changes.

The new model comes in three trim levels. The three trim levels for the Beetle TDI are the TDI, the TDI with Sunroof, and the TDI with Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation. All three models have the following standard features: power windows with one-touch up/down; cruise control; V-Tex Leatherette seating; the “kaeferfach” secondary glovebox; Bluetooth; a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with audio controls; three auxiliary gauges; keyless entry with push-button start; and a Media Device Interface with iPod cable. VW said the new model will go on sale in summer 2012 as a 2013-MY vehicle