Off-Road Renegade Creates Long-Awaited, Legendary Baja Bug from Your Nostalgic Poster Dreams
In a refreshing twist for the restomod industry, Twisted Automotive has unveiled its new creation, the TBug. Abandoning the trend of quadruple-digit horsepower, this Baja Bug reimagination based on classic Volkswagen Beetles produces less than 80 horsepower, offering an unadulterated driving experience.
This project, led by Twisted founder Charles Fawcett, is a fulfillment of his childhood fascination with Baja Bug posters. The TBug epitomizes the ideal automotive project born out of genuine passion, not market demands.
Previously recognized for their exceptional Land Rover Defender restomods and Suzuki Jimny modifications, Twisted has channeled their expertise in building capable off-road machines into the TBug. The vehicle stands out for its focus on the connection between driver, machine, and terrain, rather than raw numbers.
Although the power output has allegedly been doubled, Twisted is quick to emphasize that the engine remains "happily under 80 horses." This modest approach maintains the iconic character of original Baja Bugs, fostering an immersive driving experience where road conditions are felt, not merely observed.
Each TBug begins with a genuine 1960s-1980s air-cooled Beetle, which is stripped down to the chassis. After sealing and reinforcing the foundation, the vehicle is equipped with long-travel suspension designed for heavy-duty off-roading, and the bodywork sports a classic Baja-inspired design.
Modern touches include LED lighting, upgraded electronics, improved braking systems, and chunky BF Goodrich all-terrain tires wrapped around period-appropriate EMPI Baja wheels. Interiors are hand-finished, balancing heritage appeal with contemporary comfort, featuring elements like wooden steering wheels and digital speedometers.
Twisted pursues a one-off philosophy, ensuring no two TBugs will be identical. Each build is customized to the owner’s specifications, covering everything from trim and color to optional equipment. This approach harks back to the Singer method applied to Beetles, allowing each car to become a unique expression of its owner's vision while preserving the vehicle's core DNA.
Despite the seemingly restrained power figures, Twisted has not compromised on engineering quality. The chassis undergoes substantial strengthening, the suspension is equipped with long-travel components, and the braking system receives meaningful upgrades to handle improved performance and off-road requirements.
The TBug will officially debut at Twisted's new London showroom on May 29. Although pricing details have yet to be revealed, the vehicle is expected to sit above their Suzuki Jimny projects while remaining below their premium Defender restomods. Given the extensive custom work involved, figures are likely to start well into five digits.
With its blend of vintage charm, bespoke craftsmanship, and practical off-road engineering, the TBug offers a unique and exciting option for those seeking a classic vehicle with modern reliability and custom flair.
- The TBug, Twisted Automotive's latest project, is a testament to the automotive industry's fusion with style, as it epitomizes the marriage of vintage charm and modern technology.
- As the finance sector aligns with the TBug's debut, it's anticipated that the vehicle will occupy a significant position, sitting above Twisted Automotive's Suzuki Jimny projects but below their premium Defender restomods.
- In the realm of the restomod industry, Twisted Automotive's TBug stands out, not for its high horsepower, but for its focus on connection and driving experience, reflecting the crossroads of automotive passion, technology, and sports.
- The TBug, born from Twisted founder Charles Fawcett's childhood love for Baja Bugs, proves that the automotive industry's ethos can extend beyond market demands into the realm of personal passion, embodying an attractive blend of sports, transportation, and industry.
