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New Models
AUTOS: VW Drops Top On Beetle
The convertible version of the new-generation retro bug is revealed prior to its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Volkswagen released images of the latest version of Beetle convertible, which will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. (Photo: Volkswagen)
Now in its third generation – despite being introduced more than 70 years ago – the Volkswagen Beetle has finally gained its convertible counterpart. Its official public debut will come at next month's 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, and sales begin in the fourth quarter.
Using a fabric top when many automakers have chosen folding hardtops for their convertibles, the Beetle Convertible's lid can open or close in just over 10 seconds at the press of a button, VW says.
For now, we don't know pricing, but we do know three engines will be offered, paralleling the hardtop Beetle: a 2.5-liter five-cylinder good for 170 horsepower; a turbo 2-liter TSI four-cylinder with 200 horsepower; and a 2-liter TDI diesel that generates 140 horsepower, and 236 pound-feet of torque.
A six-speed automatic is standard on the base 2.5-liter engine, while the TSI and TDI variants have a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearboxes. Equipped with the manual, the Beetle Convertible TDI scores 41 mpg highway, according to VW.
Differences from the standard Beetle are few and primarily oriented toward safety. Computer-activated safety bars hidden behind the rear seat pop up in the event of a rollover, bracing the car against the fixed A-pillars.
This story originally appeared at Motor Authority.
Using a fabric top when many automakers have chosen folding hardtops for their convertibles, the Beetle Convertible's lid can open or close in just over 10 seconds at the press of a button, VW says.
For now, we don't know pricing, but we do know three engines will be offered, paralleling the hardtop Beetle: a 2.5-liter five-cylinder good for 170 horsepower; a turbo 2-liter TSI four-cylinder with 200 horsepower; and a 2-liter TDI diesel that generates 140 horsepower, and 236 pound-feet of torque.
A six-speed automatic is standard on the base 2.5-liter engine, while the TSI and TDI variants have a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearboxes. Equipped with the manual, the Beetle Convertible TDI scores 41 mpg highway, according to VW.
Differences from the standard Beetle are few and primarily oriented toward safety. Computer-activated safety bars hidden behind the rear seat pop up in the event of a rollover, bracing the car against the fixed A-pillars.
This story originally appeared at Motor Authority.
The Lyonheart K
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