Oprah Does It Again, Gives Away 2012 New Beetle

Oprah, being a fan and owner of a convertible Beetle, does it again, giving away over 275 new Beetles -- before they hit the street to her invited audience on Monday. Yes, what a way to kick-off the holiday season! Unlike the last car giveaway Oprah did with Pontiac, which left recipients of the G6 still having to dish out a reported $7,000 per vehicle to pay for taxes and other related expenses, recipients of the Bettle will be able to drive away scot-free. This time the talk show mogul got the automaker to ante up -- paying for all related tax expenses.

According to the folk at VW, they saw this as an incredible opportunity to share Oprah's Beetle ownership experience with deserving viewers, we instantly wanted to be a part of it,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “Our all-new 2012 Beetle exemplifies power, styling and sophistication, and is an automotive icon reinvented to create the new shape of performance.”

When the new Beetle arrives it will feature a sportier, more aggressive stance, and features sleeker styling and a wealth of new technologies that provide a heightened driving experience. It is also customizable,with options that will offer the performance, styling, accessories and features that will appeal to everyone from the driving enthusiast to the driver motivated by value, excellent fuel-economy and nostalgia.

The 2012 Beetle will be available in showrooms next fall. At that time, pricing will be announced. The 2012 Beetle will improve upon the current-generation of Beetles by offering twin tailpipes, 19-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a touch-screen radio, branded audio speaker systems, navigation and unique ambient lighting provide a heightened driving experience.

We hope VW has better luck with Oprah's endorsement than GM. The Pontiac brand is resting in car heaven next to the Hummer, Oldsmobile and Saturn brands! Let's hope VW has better luck.