Where was this built, what was it called?
Up!
Do the Experts recognize this strange beast?
Its a Volkswagen made in South Africa designed by two Brits in the early 70's. I think the designers were Tim Fry and Reg Myatt both ex Rootes designers.Based on the Beetle and codenamed Project 1021.^ prototypes were made in SUV and pick up versions. But cancelled because they decided to go with the Golf in South Africa instead.
And the point goes to wingroad for the complete answer.
Really strange execution of a Beetle SUV.