Just when the world thought it had seen the last incarnation of the Volkswagen Beetle, the company's California designers pulled out another version of this classic people's car. And, given its iconic status, the fact that the Volkswagen Ragster Concept continues with the retro theme should come as no surprise.

The 2005 North American International Auto Show was the location for Volkswagen's unveiling of the four-passenger Ragster Concept, an aggressively styled New Beetle with a chopped roof and a cool ragtop. Body enhancements include less exaggerated front and rear styling, more pronounced fender flares, 19-inch alloy wheels with old-school redline tires, and a roofline that has been lowered several inches.

Started with the existing New Beetle convertible, designers also added a U-shaped roof structure that surrounds the ragtop. With side windows that fully retract, the Ragster offers an airy alternative to the more traditional convertible. While enjoying that open-air feeling, passengers are comforted by bucket seats clad in leather.

Volkswagen engineers have left the door wide open with regard to the Ragster's powertrain, with visions of either a potent gas or turbodiesel engine generating forward momentum. Regardless of engine choice, the Volkswagen Ragster is ready with its Brembo brakes.

No decision has been made on Ragster production, but there's no doubt that this fresh, muscular ragtop could breath some new life into this aging icon.

By Thom Blackett

Photos by Erik Hanson