Volkswgen GTI Cabriolet Returns: Geneva Motor Show Preview
Offering a more performance tuned alternative to the Eos, Volkswagen has just released the very first photos and details on a drop-top version of its popular GTI hot hatch.
Powered by the same turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder as found in the hatchback, the GTI Cabriolet makes 210 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds – 0.4 seconds slower than the hatchback. Available transmissions include a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual clutch DSG gearbox. Helping put that power to the ground is VW’s XDS electronic limited slip differential.
Equipped with a fabric roof, the electronically powered unit folds away in just 9.5 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 18 mph. To help maximize safety, the GTI Cabriolet comes equipped with automatically deploying rollover bars.
Like the hatch, the Cabriolet model gets a unique honeycomb grille, aero kit and fog lights, plus dual chrome tailpipes, smoked LED taillights and 17-inch Monza wheels.
The return of the convertible GTI marks the first time since the third generation model that this configuration has been offered. It’s not clear if VW will offer the GTI Cabriolet in North America.
Look for more on the GTI Cabriolet with AutoGuide’s Geneva Auto Show coverage starting March 6th, and see the complete show preview here.
GALLERY: 2013 VW GTI Cabriolet
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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