Volkswagen has revealed images and information regarding its 2013 Beetle Cabriolet before its official unveiling at the Los Angeles Motor Show next month.
This model’s centerpiece is an electrically operated canvas top that can be raised or lowered in ten seconds. In keeping with the new models flatter, more purposeful silhouette, the revised roof mechanism will see the top stowed beneath a flat rear deck that contrasts strongly with the current car’s rear view-obliterating set-up.
This flat rear deck also plays host to an active rollover protection system that deploys a pair of impact-absorbing structures in a matter of milliseconds to protect both front and rear occupants.
In Europe, a choice of seven engines will be offered. The entry-point will be a 1,2-litre TSI petrol unit developing 77 kW (followed by an eco-friendly BlueMotion version), a 1,4-litre TSI with 118 kW and the range-topping 2,0 TSI with 147 kW on tap. The diesels comprise a 77 kW 1,6-litre TDI in normal and BlueMotion flavours, and a 2,0-litre TDI developing 103 kW.
The new Beetle Cabriolet will be underpinned by the Golf 6 chassis and will be offered with two suspension set-ups; multi-link front/torsion beam rear for the bulk of models, with a multi-link front/four-link rear earmarked for the 2,0-litre TSI.
According to a VWSA spokesperson, there currently aren't any plans to introduce the Beetle Cabriolet to the local market.