AutoExpress reports, "Volkswagen is planning an all-new Beetle... and it’s dropping the present car’s cute curves for an altogether more sporty and striking look."  The redesigned Bug is intended "to attract more male customers to the model. A company insider told Auto Express that the current variant is considered too feminine and needs to have a stronger shape."  Design drawings circulating on the internet show a "low roofline with chunky pillars, a squared-off waistline – similar to the latest Audi TT’s – and a wider stance."

Jalopnik adds that the next New Beetle will be "built on the new Golf platform" that underlies the current Rabbit and GTI.  "The refined Beetle should also offer more space for passengers and their macho gear."  VW hopes to sell the next Bug as a 2010 model.

None of the reports mention plans for a New Beetle that revives the rear-engine layout of the original -- which had been the subject of some recent speculation.

Research the best small cars with U.S. News' car rankings and reviews.