2013 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet

Posted 4th October, 2012 in Volkswagen | Leave a comment

Volkswagen has released initial details of its 2013 Beetle Cabriolet model ahead of its official début at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show (November 30 – December 9).

Following the same lines as the current Beetle Coupé, the 2013 Cabriolet features a more upright windscreen and flatter roofline, which also helps to create a silhouette resembling that of the original 1949 version. Well, that’s what Volkswagen is saying.

Once again constructed from fabric, the automatically-operated roof opens and closes in around ten seconds at speeds up to 48 km/h (30 mph). The Bug’s boot capacity of 225 litres might just be enough to handle your groceries, but additional space can be found once the split rear bench seats have been folded down, while a pair of extendable modules mounted behind the seats are activated by the central airbag triggering unit in the event of a rollover mishap.

Engine options will begin with a 77 kW (103 hp) 1.2 TSI, followed by a 118 kW (158 hp) 1.4 TSI and 2.0-litre version producing 147 kW (197 hp), with diesel fans being offered a 77 kW (103 hp) 1.6 TDI and 103 kW (138 hp) 2.0 TDI. BlueMotion Technology can be specified on the 1.2 TSI and 1.6 TDI.

Due to be launched in Europe next spring, Volkswagen will be taking orders from this November with prices starting at €21,350.