Volkswagen Beetle is still the ''ultimate'' car for female drivers

Research has found that the newish Volkswagen Beetle is still number one with the ladies, over 10 years after its initial release.

The new Beetle's enticing combination of retro styling and German quality, alongside the obligatory dashboard flower are still prompting lady drivers to sell a car for cash to put towards this kitsch car.

The survey from researchers TrueCar found that the Bug's main draw was its unusual but endearing looks. Undergoing a slight facelift in 2003, the Beetle has continued to woo buyers, bringing out a convertible version and a range of limited edition colours.

Built in Puebla Mexico, the Beetle comes in a range of specifications, from a base 1.4 model to a 170 bhp V5 variant - although there is something a little strange about a little plastic flower in the sportier versions.

With production on the current range of Beetle's due to cease, the rumour-mill has already started, with Car Magazine reporting that VW could produce two Beetles - one a smaller version and the other, a larger concept based on the Golf.

Other popular models for female car buyers included the Volkswagen Eos, Toyota Rav and Kia Sportage, with women moving moving away from small cars in favour of crossover models, according to Autoblog.