Volkswagen details production version of the Golf GTI cabriolet
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Volkswagen has revealed the definitive production version of the Golf GTI cabriolet ahead of the live premiere at next week’s Geneva motor show.
First shown in lightly veiled concept-car form last year in Austria, the four-seat open-top joins the existing three- and five-door hatchback versions of Volkswagen’s iconic compact performance car in an expanded, three-strong range of Golf GTI models set for European sale later this year.
The Golf GTI cabriolet will not be sold in North America. With the Eos set to be joined by the upcoming Beetle cabriolet, Volkswagen’s North American operations suggest it will have sufficient market coverage to tempt prospective open-top buyers.
Based on the year-old, third-generation Golf cabriolet, the GTI receives the same turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine as its long-established hatchback siblings, with 211 hp (in Europe).
Drive is sent through a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and electronic differential lock to the front wheels. Volkswagen claims 0-to-62-mph acceleration in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 147 mph for the manual-equipped version.
Distinguishing the car from standard versions of the Golf cabriolet already on sale in Europe is a new front bumper with a characteristic honeycomb grille, vertically staked fog lamps and LED-imbued headlamps. Further changes include wider sills underneath the doors, a deeper rear bumper with integrated diffuser elements, chromed tailpipes and 17-inch wheels in Volkswagen’s familiar Denver design, shod with 225/45 profile tires.
Inside, the cabriolet receives a raft of typical GTI touches, including checkered seat fabric, stainless-steel-caped pedals, reworked instruments and traditional red stitching for the steering wheel, gearlever cover and handbrake.
You can reach Greg Kable at autonews@crain.com.
