The VW 1302, introduced in August 1970,[163] featured a redesigned front end. It incorporated a new front axle featuring MacPherson suspension struts, wishbones and a stabiliser.[164] The enlargement of the front trunk became possible as a result. Unlike its predecessor, the spare wheel was no longer positioned diagonally at the front under the hood but instead rested horizontally under a cover in the trunk area.[157][165]The company initially intended to designate the car as the "1301", but a trademarkalready held by the French company Simca compelled Volkswagen to use "1302" instead. Volkswagen produced the more powerful 1302S alongside the 1302. The latter has an engine displacement of 1.3 litres (1,285 cc), while the former has a capacity of 1.6 litres (1,584 cc).[166][167] In English-speaking countries, the name "Super Beetle"—alongside "1600"—was included on the written description but not the engine cover.[166]

The 1302 possessed the same 32.4 kW (44 PS) output as the 1300, whereas the 1302S saw an increase to 36.8 kW (50 PS). This was facilitated by a twin-port cylinder head, enabling the engines to breathe more effortlessly. The British automotive magazine Autocar expressed disappointment in its power increase, noting, "Even with 14 [per cent] more power, the total output of 50 bhp is very modest for the size of the engine". The Super Beetle had a 2 cm (0.8 in) increase in wheelbase, but the extra space was in front of the windshield. For 1971, the overall length increased by 8 cm (3.1 in), doubling the front trunk capacity and adding 3 cu ft (0.1 m3) of luggage space. Volkswagen also implemented a new "flow through" ventilation system, drawing its air from a vent below the windshield and exiting the rear quarter panels.