Jay Leno is almost as famous for his affinity for cars as he is for his run as host of the Tonight Show. So it comes as no surprise that he was recently chosen to be among the first to drive the latest Volkswagen Beetle.

The venerable comedian was offered the opportunity to fly to Volkswagen's headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany, and test drive not only the 2012 Beetle, but also the oldest known version of the iconic car, a mint-condition 1938 model.

Though the antique Beetle was certainly a treat, it was the new one that really made an impression with Leno. Volkswagen recently unveiled the updated design, which is much sleeker than in previous years. It also has a model available with a new turbocharged engine.

"The thing that astounds me about this car is how sophisticated and how much power it has," Leno said of the 2012 variety.

Drivers who want to pick up a reliable used Volkswagen may want to check out New Jersey Auto Auction, which offers plenty of makes and models at affordable prices.