Twisted T-Bug Restomod Reimagines the Baja Bug with Modern Flair and Off-Road Power.
The classic Volkswagen Beetle has served as the foundation for countless automotive reinventions over the years, from drag racers to dune buggies and even RVs. One of the most beloved transformations was the Baja Bug—a rugged, off-road-ready reinterpretation born in Southern California’s desert racing scene of the 1960s. Now, British automotive company Twisted Automotive, renowned for its custom Land Rover Defender builds, is giving the Baja Bug a modern revival with its T-Bug.
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A Nostalgic Yet Innovative Off-Roader
Twisted Automotive’s T-Bug is built on a reinforced 1960s Beetle chassis, completely reengineered to tackle rough terrain while retaining its distinctive, vintage charm. The company describes its creation as a raw, honest driving experience that embraces the spirit of adventure.
The T-Bug has several major upgrades. It features cutaway fender flares that give it a wider stance. The tubular bumpers are built to handle tough conditions. It now has larger EMPI Baja wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich off-road tires. The suspension is improved for more travel and better ground clearance. Modern LED headlights are added for clearer visibility at night.
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Performance That Prioritizes Experience
The vehicle’s air-cooled flat-four Volkswagen Beetle engine has been upgraded to deliver twice the original power output—though deliberately kept under 80 horsepower. This decision was made to ensure a pure driving experience, allowing drivers to truly connect with the terrain and the vehicle itself, rather than relying on sheer power.
Twisted Automotive’s founder, Charles Fawcett, emphasizes that the T-Bug is about attitude, not numbers. He explains that modern vehicles often isolate drivers from the raw thrill of driving, and the T-Bug aims to restore that connection.
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Customization and Classic Appeal
The interior features a hand-built cabin that combines tough looks with classy touches. It includes bucket seats that give a tight, sporty feel and a simple dashboard with custom switches. The seats are wrapped in high-quality leather to add a touch of luxury. Each T-Bug is made to match the customer’s prefers, so no two are exactly the same. Buyers can choose everything from the look of the inside to the outside style, making each vehicle one of a kind.
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When and Where to See the T-Bug
For enthusiasts eager to witness this modern Baja Bug revival, the Twisted Automotive showroom in Kensington Mews will showcase the T-Bug on May 29, 2025. While pricing details remain undisclosed, it’s clear that the T-Bug offers an exclusive, adventurous driving experience for those nostalgic about the off-roading culture of the past.
The T-Bug’s blend of classic styling, off-road capability, and driver-focused engineering makes it a standout choice for those seeking an authentic and thrilling driving experience. In an era of increasingly digital and disconnected driving, this off-roader revives the pure joy of mechanical engagement—a quality many enthusiasts sorely miss.
