What Sets the Twisted TBug Apart from Other Restomods?
If you’ve spent any time around classic car enthusiasts, you know the restomod scene is booming. But every so often, something comes along that really stands out from the crowd. Enter the Twisted TBug—a fresh take on the iconic Volkswagen Beetle Baja Bug, crafted by the Yorkshire-based specialists at Twisted. These are the folks who’ve built their reputation on reimagining Land Rover Defenders, so you know they’re not just tinkering for the sake of it.
What makes the TBug different? It’s not just another air-cooled, rear-engined classic with a few modern touches. Twisted has approached this project with the same meticulous attention to detail they bring to their Defenders. The result is a car that’s both charmingly retro and impressively refined. The interior is beautifully trimmed, the stance is spot-on, and the upgrades—like a reinforced chassis and modern LED lighting—are seamlessly integrated. It’s a car that feels special before you even turn the key.
Is the TBug All About Performance?
Let’s get this out of the way: the TBug isn’t a rocket ship. With less than 80bhp on tap, it’s not going to win any drag races. But here’s the thing—speed isn’t the point. Twisted has doubled the original power output, but the real magic is in the driving experience. Charles Fawcett, Twisted’s founder, puts it perfectly: the TBug is about putting a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.
In a world where cars are becoming more complex and, let’s be honest, sometimes a bit too serious, the TBug is a breath of fresh air. It’s about the joy of driving, the connection to the road, and the nostalgia of a simpler era. And that’s something you can’t measure in horsepower.
How Customizable Is the TBug?
If you’re the kind of person who wants a car that reflects your personality, the TBug delivers in spades. Unlike Twisted’s more mainstream Defender and Suzuki Jimny projects, the TBug lives in the company’s “special projects” division. That means personalization is the name of the game. You can work closely with Twisted’s designers to create something truly unique—whether that’s a subtle grey, a vibrant green, or a sunny yellow.
Twisted has already built three TBugs for sale, but the possibilities for customization are nearly endless. From bespoke interiors to unique exterior finishes, you can get lost in the options. Of course, this level of craftsmanship and individuality comes at a price—expect to spend around £95,000. For many, though, the exclusivity and attention to detail are well worth it.
Why Choose a TBug Over Other Restomods?
There’s no shortage of restomods out there, but the TBug takes a refreshingly different approach. It’s not about stuffing in a massive engine or converting to electric power just for the headlines. Instead, Twisted has focused on enhancing what made the original Beetle so beloved—its simplicity, its character, and its undeniable charm.
This isn’t just a car for collectors or showrooms. It’s a car you’ll want to drive, whether you’re heading out for a weekend adventure or just taking the long way home. And because it’s based on a rear-engined, air-cooled classic, it offers a driving experience you just can’t replicate with modern machinery.
What’s the Real-World Appeal of the TBug?
Let’s be honest: most of us aren’t looking for the fastest car on the block. We want something that feels special, that sparks conversation, and that makes every drive memorable. The TBug nails that brief. It’s a car that draws a crowd wherever it goes, but it’s also practical enough to use regularly.
Twisted’s reputation for quality means you’re getting more than just a pretty face. The reinforced chassis, updated electrics, and thoughtful upgrades ensure the TBug is as reliable as it is fun. And with the company’s background in building rugged Defenders, you know it’s built to last.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Icon
If you’re searching for a restomod that combines classic style with modern reliability—and a healthy dose of personality—the Twisted TBug is hard to beat. It’s proof that you don’t need outrageous power or cutting-edge tech to create something truly special. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective, a bit of Yorkshire ingenuity, and a willingness to do things the right way.
The outcome? A car that’s as joyful to drive as it is to look at. And in today’s automotive world, that’s something worth celebrating.