Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, 2013

Some special cars reflect the fundamental attitude of their owners - the new Beetle Cabriolet is such a car. Driving this Volkswagen shows that the people inside really enjoy a sporty design, colours and driving with the top down. Even ordering the new Beetle Cabriolet will be a cult act for most buyers - because many more options are available to express your individual taste than ever before: five standard equipment versions are available ("Beetle", "Design", "Design Exclusive", "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive") as well as three special models ("50's Edition", "60's Edition" and "70's Edition"). This range is supplemented by twelve finishes and two soft top colours, eleven different types of interior textile and leather trim, twelve rims, innumerable technical and visual features as well as efficient petrol and diesel engines with performance ranging from 77 kW /105 PS to 147 kW /200 PS. These are all turbocharged engines, available with optional six and sevenspeed dual clutch gearboxes. Fuel economy range for these efficient, high torque, four-cylinder engines: 4.5 to 7.8 l/100 km.

The Beetle Cabriolet is the lowest priced open-top car from Volkswagen
"The new Beetle Cabriolet", according to Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand, Technical Development, "takes the design of the original open Beetle and New Beetle, transferring the shapes to present times and enriching everything with a high degree of sportiness. In most European countries, the new Beetle Cabriolet can already be ordered, and at attractive prices". In Germany, this four-seater starts with a base price of 21,350 euros - making the opentop Beetle the lowest priced convertible in the Volkswagen range.

Top opens and closes while driving
The new Beetle Cabriolet has become larger and more majestic. It has an elongated, wider appearance, the roof is flatter, the proportions more dynamic. Beyond any performance figures and fuel economy values, the most important figure for a convertible: The time required to put down the top. Only 9.5 seconds with the Beetle Cabriolet, and thanks to its electric motor, this is an almost noiseless process. It even works while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. When retracted the soft top is stored compactly behind the rear seat where it does not restrict the view to the rear. The soft top on the Beetle Cabriolet can be closed in 11.0 seconds; the additional 1.5 seconds are required to allow the electric drive to automatically lock the roof to the windscreen frame.

Even a new car is a collector's item
The day they are delivered, purchasers of the new Beetle Cabriolets receive cars destined for a long service life. That's the way it has always been with the convertibles in this series: First new cars kept by the original owners for a long time, then classic and, finally, vintage cars. And used cars? Granted! Multitudes of the 565,000 convertibles under the Beetle label have taken this route. And that's the way it will be in the future.

Exterior
The design of the Beetle Cabriolet retains the distinctive charisma of the coupé, demonstrating, in open as well as closed state, the unmistakable and timeless character of the original Beetle Cabriolet. In both cases, it is the soft top that gives this car its very special style. In spite of all its modern features, with the top up, it is reminiscent of the early period of the automobile when all cars had rag tops. And the top of the new Beetle Cabriolet can be put down in only 9.5 seconds, allowing you to enjoy it as a pure summer car. When closed, the Beetle is automatically converted into a multi-talented companion for all seasons.

The roof in detail
Thanks to the so-called K-fold feature of this roof covered with multiple layers, weather-proof fabric (in "black" or "nutria beige"), the entire roof system can be put down in a very compact space. Result: Even with the top down, the boot volume (225 litres) remains the same as when the soft top is closed. The outer surface of this top consists of one centre section and two side parts; the seams between the centre section and sides also serve simultaneously as rain gutters. Volkswagen uses foam-bonded fabric for the headliner on the inside. An acoustically insulating fibre mat is located between the outer surface and headliner to bring the acoustic characteristics up to the same level appreciated in the Beetle with a metal roof or panoramic sunroof.

Soft top remains in optimum position even at high speed
The folding frame and tensioning structure form the basic design of the soft top. The top frame consists of the front section (interface to windscreen frame), two lateral frames with seals, the movable rear tensioning structure, one main pivot on each side, four arched elements (to which the soft top is also fastened) and the heated rear glass window. The attachment points between the soft top and roof frame ensure that the outer surface remains in its optimum position even at high speeds. Classy: As on the New Beetle Cabriolet, a circumferential chrome strip below the soft top and side windows separates the top from the body area.

Design and dimensions
With a length of 4,278 mm, the new convertible is 152 mm longer than the New Beetle. It is also 84 mm wider (1,808 mm, not including exterior rear-view mirrors). Since the convertible is 29 mm flatter, with a height of 1.473, the proportions alone give this Beetle a very sporty appearance.

Rear spoiler as standard feature

The style itself follows the Volkswagen design DNA. This is clearly demonstrated by the horizontal layout of the rear bumper, the front air inlet, the straight bonnet edges, the precisely drawn line between the A-pillars and soft top C-pillars or the design of the taillights. One thing is certain: All of the styling characteristics of the Beetle and New Beetle have been preserved - which is little surprise, because cars like the Beetle have had a decisive influence on Volkswagen's design DNA. Of course, other design features of the Beetle Cabriolet include the extending wings and clearly marked taillights, the shape of the bonnet, the rocker panels and door sills and - more than ever - the capability to integrate large wheels (up to 19 inch). An entirely new feature on the Beetle Cabriolet is the rear spoiler, which is homogeneously integrated into the design as a standard feature and helps to maintain high speed stability. The bottom surface of the rear spoiler is always finished in black, while the top is painted to match the colour of the car.

Uncompromising safety
Just like the New Beetle Cabriolet, this new open-top Volkswagen is equipped with a rollover protection system as a standard feature. This design of this invisible rollbar has been advanced in many respects, making it possible now to equip the convertible with symmetrically divided rear seat backrests and thus allowing transport of long items. Within milliseconds of the vehicle exceeding a defined lateral acceleration or vehicle inclination threshold, the rollover protection system shoots up behind the rear headrests. This mechanism is controlled by the central airbag actuating unit. For the newest version of this rollover protection system, use of high tensile strength steel and aluminium have made it possible to reduce the weight by nearly 50 per cent in comparison to other solutions.

Reinforced body shell
The rollover protection system is part of a comprehensive safety package, which ensures the highest level of passive safety for the convertible. Other specific modifications include a stable tubular member in the top edge of the door, reinforced A-pillars (additional 0.5 mm sheet metal thickness) and particularly strong rocker panels. On the Beetle Cabriolet, the A-pillars also consist of extremely stable, hot-shaped sheet metal. These features also serve to protect passengers in a head-on collision or when the car rolls. In side-on collisions, the function of the most important structural components are assumed by the reinforced B-pillars, the floor cross-members and the doors. The passive safety features are completed by the front airbags and side head-thorax airbags. The entire reinforcement and the rollover protection system results in 114 kilograms of additional weight for the convertible in comparison to the coupé.

Extreme torsional rigidity
Simultaneously, the body reinforcement improves the car's static and dynamic torsional rigidity. The resonant torsional frequency has an excellent value of 17.8 Hz. For this reason, the new Beetle Cabriolet does not require any vibration dampers, such as are frequently used on other convertibles.

Interior
What the Beetle Cabriolet has in common with the cabriolet of the New Beetle range is the truly "open" convertible feeling without the need for an extremely long windscreen frame. Both driver and passengers enjoy every millimetre of space to the roof frame, which is simply missing on other convertibles. Moreover: The additional exterior length of 152 mm in comparison to the New Beetle Cabriolet becomes very evident in the interior and boot. This impression is intensified by the fact that all four passengers enjoy generous headroom even with the roof closed; an additional 12 mm in comparison to the New Beetle Cabriolet.

Folding rear seat backrests as standard feature
Even when put down, the soft top does not limit the space in the boot; in comparison to the New Beetle Cabriolet, the volume was increased by 24 litres for a total of 225 litres. In contrast to the New Beetle Cabriolet, the symmetrically divided rear seat backrest can be folded down thanks to a newly developed rollover protection system.

Wind deflector eliminates drafts
The convertible can also be ordered with a wind deflector, which can easily be fastened above the rear seat, allowing you to take long trips with the roof open. When the wind deflector is in use, the two rear seats offer additional storage space. Perfection in detail: When not in use, the wind deflector can be stored in its own special compartment in the boot, where it is protected and takes up only minimal space.

Charismatic interior
Many details make the interior of the Beetle Cabriolet pleasantly unique. For instance, as already described, the relatively upright windscreen, reminiscent of classic sports cars. And the instrument panel - the Dash Pad - combining innovative technology and controls with an enamel finished surface and glove compartment similar to that in the air-cooled Beetle. It offers a great deal of space and comfort for four passengers. It has seats just as well-suited for a ride over the north loop as a trip from London to Lisbon. And there are shapes that are not an end in themselves but always have a functional purpose as well. For instance, the shape and colour of the instrument panel, which creates a visual bridge back to the time of the first Beetle, but is not retro.

Ambient illumination in red, white or blue
Next to the steering wheel, the Beetle Cabriolet not only has a small wheel for regulating the brightness of the instrument panel; it also has an (optional) second wheel with the scale markings "0", "r", "w" and "b". This wheel allows selection of the colour for the ambient illumination: Red, white or blue. Indirect illumination is provided on the top rail of the door, while direct illumination emanates from around the outer circumference of the door speakers in the form of a light ring. The multi-coloured ambient illumination is offered as a package in combination with the also optional Fender sound system. A single colour version (white) without light ring around the speakers is offered as a standard feature in combination with the "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive" versions.

Information and systems within easy view of the driver
In front of the driver, three round instruments (tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge) provide all significant information; a multi-function display is also integrated in the centre of the middle speedometer. Beginning with the "Design" version, the adjustable air vents and instruments also have chrome trim. This also applies to the audio/navigation system, which is located optimally in the centre of the dashboard, in the driver's field of vision. And beneath: the control for the air conditioning, a central switch strip for the hazard warning flasher and finally the shift lever with the start button for the engine located in front of it (optional).

Second glove compartment in Beetle style
Like the air-cooled Beetle, the Beetle Cabriolet has an additional glovebox with top-hinged lid integrated into the front trim on the passenger side (the standard glove compartment also integrated into the dashboard is hinged at the bottom). Other interesting features include the auxiliary instruments above the audio/navigation system with oil temperature display, stop watch and charge pressure indicator above the centre console on the instrument panel.

Equipment versions and special models
The new Beetle Cabriolet is being launched with five equipment versions: "Beetle," "Design," "Design Exclusive," "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive." Moreover, three special models are being offered for a limited time especially for this open version of the Beetle: the "50's Edition," "60's Edition" and "70's Edition," each with the flair of the decade after which it is named. Each of these eight different models has its own particular character.

Electrically operated top standard on every model
Standard features on every Beetle Cabriolet include an electrically-operated soft top, a soft top cover for use when the top is down (dust protection), electric windows all round, RCD 310 audio system (eight speakers, CD player, MP3 function, double tuner, AUX IN interface), daytime running lights, electronic stabilisation programme including electronic differential lock plus brake assist and hill climb assist, airbag system with front and side head-thorax airbags and active rollover protection system.

Bi-xenon headlights and Fender sound system
For the first time, the optional features available for the Beetle Cabriolet include details such as bi-xenon headlights, a keyless starting and locking system (Keyless Access), multi-colour ambient illumination, a Fender sound system (400 watts of pure power including subwoofer), automatic climate control, radio/navigation system, auxiliary instruments on the dashboard (stop watch, oil temperature, charge pressure) and alloy wheels up to 19".

"Beetle," "Design / Exclusive," "Sport / Exclusive"
Engine / equipment combinations. The two entry level engines (diesel and petrol each with a power output of 77 kW / 105 PS) can be ordered in combination with the "Beetle," "Design" and "Design Exclusive" specifications; the "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive" versions are not available with these engines. All five versions can be combined with the intermediate performance engines (103 kW / 140 PS and 118 kW / 160 PS). The top engine (147 kW / 200 PS) is available exclusively with "Sport" and "Sport Exclusive" specification.

"Beetle" equipment version
"Beetle" / exterior. The basic version of the Beetle Cabriolet can be distinguished by its black exterior trims - air intake grilles, door handles and the protective side trim as well as 16 inch steel wheels. As usual at Volkswagen, the side indicator lights have been integrated into the painted exterior rear-view mirror housings. One invisible Volkswagen standard: all relevant body parts are galvanised to prevent rusting. By contrast, very visible: the rear spoiler is a standard feature.

"Beetle" / interior. The so-called "Dash Pad" has an unobtrusive black finish on this version. Other standard equipment includes a three-spoke steering wheel, shift gate and cup holder with chrome trim, black door liners, large stowage compartments in doors, Easy Entry aid, symmetrically divided, folding rear seat backrests and height adjustment for front seats. The seats are upholstered with breathable fabric in "Beetle" design. Moreover, the parking brake lever button, heater controls, door pull handles as well as the clip on the light knob are all refined with chrome trim or are solid chrome.

"Beetle" / functions. Always included are features such as the electric drive for the soft top, the hill climb assist system, electric windows and electric rear-view mirror adjustment, convenience flasher (press 1 x - flashes 3 x), vertical and axial adjustment for the steering column, make-up mirrors in sun visors, plus multi-function display, RCD 310 radio/CD system with eight speakers, electro-mechanical and speed-dependent power steering, warning tone when lights are not switched off, as well as visual and audible warnings for unbuckled seat belts (system senses all seats), two reading lights and central locking system with RF remote control.

"Beetle" / safety. Every Beetle Cabriolet is equipped with Volkswagen's electronic stabilisation programme (including ABS, brake assist, EDS, ASR and counter-steer assist), daytime running lights, three-point seat belts (with tensioners on front seats), ISOFIX fixtures in the rear bench seat for use with compatible child seats, front airbags, combined head-thorax airbags for driver and front passenger, reflectors in doors and automatic hazard warning flasher (for emergency braking manoeuvres).

"Design" equipment version
"Design" / exterior. The "Design" version is based on the "Beetle" version but offers even more exclusive features. These start outside with body-coloured door handles and protective side trim (latter with chrome strip). The black air inlet grilles at the front are accentuated by chrome trim. 16-inch light alloy "Whirl" rims with wide 215 mm tyres complete the appearance.

"Design" / interior, functions, safety. Inside, the attractive dash pad is also painted to match the colour of the car. Integrated into the dash pad in front of the front seat passenger is the so-called "Beetle compartment" located behind a top-hinged lid and also painted to match the colour of the car. It is latched with a silver-coloured catch. Also painted to match the colour of the car: The top door rail. Stowage compartments on the rear of the front seats as well as a chrome clasp for the light knob and chrome trim around the controls for the ventilation system or optional air conditioning are also standard. Also chrome: the trim around the instruments, the decorative rings around the side air vents and the radio module, plus the trim on the electric window switches. Moreover, the "Design" version includes comfort front seats, "Design" seat covers, a three-spoke steering wheel with trim to match the colour of the car, carpet mats (front and rear), fog lights with static cornering feature as well as indirect background lighting in the area of the two reading lights between the driver and front passenger.

"Design Exclusive" equipment version
"Design Exclusive" / exterior. Those choosing the "Design Exclusive" version of the Beetle Cabriolet automatically benefit from 18-inch light alloy "Twister" wheels (with black, high gloss surface), wheel locks for improved anti-theft protection and 235 mm wide tyres.

"Design Exclusive" / interior. In comparison to the standard "Design" version, the interior of the "Design Exclusive" model gains a black dash pad, stainless-steel door sill panels with "Volkswagen Exclusive" monogram, ornamental seams in "Art Grey" as well as a leather cover for the steering wheel, shift lever handle and parking brake lever, a centre armrest (front), sport seats (front), leather seat mid-section and sides ("Nappa" cool leather) as well as carpet floor mats with coloured edging (front and rear).

"Design Exclusive" / functions. The Design Exclusive version of the Beetle Cabriolet also includes standard features such as heated seats and lumbar supports (front seats) as well as a tyre pressure indicator.

"Sport" equipment version
"Sport" / exterior. On the exterior, the Beetle Cabriolet Sport is equipped with large 17-inch light alloy "Spin" rims and 215/55 tyres, giving it a dynamic appearance. Also standard are the red-painted brake callipers (with 147 kW / 200 PS engine), black-finished exterior rear mirror housings and protective side trim (latter with chrome application), chrome trim on the air intake grille, chrome-plated exhaust pipe tips (with 147 kW / 200 PS engine) and anodised aluminium trim strips.

"Sport" / interior, functions, safety. Inside, the Beetle Cabriolet Sport offers a dash pad with sporty carbon look plus "Beetle compartment"; customers also have the option to order the dash pad in black or body colour. Standard equipment also includes ambient illumination (single colour), sport seats with lumbar support (front) in "Sport" design (with stowage pockets on front seat backrests), a three-spoke steering wheel with black-finished decoration, leather parking brake lever and gear knob, aluminium-look pedals, chrome trim on controls for air conditioning (standard in this case), black-finished upper door rails and carpet mats. Also standard: Fog lights with static cornering feature and front indirect background lighting.

"Sport Exclusive" equipment version
"Sport Exclusive" / exterior. The "Sport Exclusive" version of the Beetle Cabriolet is equipped with 18-inch light alloy "Twister" rims (with black, high gloss surface) including locking wheel bolts and 235 mm tyres.

"Sport Exclusive" / interior. In comparison to the "normal" "Sport" version, the interior of the Exclusive model also has a black dash pad, stainless steel door sill panels with "Volkswagen Exclusive" monogram, ornamental seams in "Art Grey" for the steering wheel, gear knob and parking brake lever, a centre armrest (front), leather seat mid-section and sides ("Nappa" cool leather) as well as carpet mats with coloured edging (front and rear).

"Sport Exclusive" / functions. The Sport Exclusive version of the Beetle Cabriolet also includes standard features such as heated seats and lumbar supports (front seats) as well as a tyre pressure indicator.

Special "50's", "60's" and "70's" models
Homage to original Volkswagen Beetle convertible. As previously mentioned, some cars reflect the characters of their owners. Anyone who attempts to capture the spirit of a certain era with his or her clothes, hairdo or décor will also transfer this preference to their car. The new Beetle Cabriolet makes this possible for the first time. Background: For the market launch of the open-top Beetle, Volkswagen has devised three special edition models: the stylish "50's Edition," the cool "60's Edition" and the elegant "70's Edition". Each of these three editions reflects the character of its specified decade - and also pays homage to the legendary original VW Beetle convertible.

Special "50's Edition"
Classic black exterior. The exterior is distinguished by the 17" light alloy "Circle Black" rims (basic colour black with chrome-plated rim edge and also chrome-plated hub caps), chrome-plated exterior rear mirror caps, "50's" badges in chrome, black soft top, fog lights with cornering feature and "Uni-Black 50's Edition" paintwork. The interior features provided as standard on the "50's Edition" include items such as heated sport seats with lumbar support (front), black dash pad and door trim, "Vienna" leather trims - as contrast to black in light "nutria beige" or two-tone "salsa red / titanium black" - carpet mats (front and rear), three-spoke leather steering wheel, air conditioning, exclusive RCD 510 audio system (incl. full colour TFT touchscreen, CD changer, MP3 function, AUX IN interface and double tuner) with eight speakers, plus multifunction display as well as cruise control.

Up to 160 PS. The "50's Edition" can be ordered in combination with all TDI and TSI engines available for the Beetle Cabriolet up to 118 kW / 160 PS.

Special "60's Edition"
Statement in light blue or cool white. The "60's Edition" captures the flair of the sixties with high quality sport seats (front, with lumbar supports) in two-tone "Vienna" leather ("Atlantic blue / titanium black or "salsa red / titanium black"), choice of "Denim blue" or "Candy white" paintwork, black soft top, "60's" badges and auxiliary instruments (charge pressure, oil temperature and stop watch). Also matching: 18" light alloy "Twister" rims (base colour black with five high gloss spokes) and black exterior rear mirror caps. Also included as standard features: Cruise control, carpet mats (front and rear), three-spoke leather steering wheel, plus multifunction display, RCD 510 top audio systems (incl. full colour TFT touchscreen, CD changer, MP3 function, AUX IN interface, double tuner and eight speakers), MEDIA IN as USB interface, fog lights with cornering feature and chrome "Volkswagen" monogram on boot lid.

With 140 PS or 160 PS. The "60's Edition" is offered with a 118 kW / 160 PS TSI engine (petrol, with optional seven-speed DSG) and TDI (diesel) with 103 kW / 140 PS (with optional six-speed DSG).

Special "70's Edition"
Noble in toffee brown or platinum grey. The "70's Edition" is designed for elegance - with "toffee brown metallic" or "platinum grey metallic" paintwork, each matched to the beige-colour soft top and the leather seats ("Vienna" in "nutria beige," front sport seats with lumbar supports). Chrome dominates the large 18" light alloy "Disc" wheels and the exterior rear mirror housings. Other standard features on the new "70's Edition" Beetle Cabriolet include fog lights with cornering feature, "70's" badges, cruise control, multi function display, carpet mats (front and rear), three-spoke leather steering wheel and the high quality RCD 510 audio system (incl. full colour TFT touchscreen, CD changer, MP3 function, AUX IN interface and double tuner) with eight speakers.

Accessories and special equipment
In addition to the five equipment versions and three special models, the Beetle Cabriolet can be further customised with our range of special equipment. Here the range goes from decals and chrome emblems such as "Beetle" or "Volkswagen" to sporty R-Line packages and technical features such as our Keyless Access system for starting and locking the car without a key or a 400 watt sound system from the U.S. specialist Fender. Most important special equipment at a glance:

Special equipment
Chrome emblems. The nickname used in each specific country is available as an option for the rear of the Beetle Cabriolet - monograms include "Käfer," "Beetle," "Bug," "Vocho," "Coccinelle," "Fusca" or "Maggiolino." Naturally, only if you want it. If there really is a country that doesn't have a nickname for our bestseller in its vocabulary, that's no problem either; in such cases the "Beetle" monogram is always available. And, naturally, another name is also available as an option: "Volkswagen."

Decals. The exterior can also be customised with a variety of decals. On the convertible various nickname decals are available for the lower area of the doors.

Door sill panels. This detail protects the door sills from scratches and damage: stainless steel door sill plates (various monograms are also available for this application).

Key cover. Even the keys can be customised with a cover from the Volkswagen range of accessories. Two are available: a white cover with black monogram ("Beetle," "Bug," "Vocho," "Coccinelle," "Fusca," "Käfer," "Maggiolino" or "Turbo"); or a black cover with white lettering for the "Turbo" monogram.

Exhaust pipe tip cover. The new exhaust pipe tip cover (76 mm diameter) made of high quality stainless steel (polished to high gloss) underlines the sportiness of the Beetle Cabriolet.

Radio/CD systems. The Beetle Cabriolet is already equipped as standard with the high quality RCD 310 audio system with eight speakers (four tweeters and four woofers) including a double tuner. The top audio system is the RCD 510 with integrated CD changer, interface for SD cards and TFT touchscreen.

Radio/navigation systems. An economical yet attractive entry to the world of radio/navigation systems is offered by the RNS 315 with five-inch touchscreen (400 x 240 pixels), CD player, SD card slot and double tuner. The top model radio/navigation system is the RNS 510 which provides additional functionality with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, DVD player, voice control, SD card slot and 30 gigabyte hard disc.

Sound system from Fender. If you love the world of rock music, you will be familiar with legends like Jimi Hendrix or Eric Clapton. The one played, the other is still playing his Fender guitar. This legendary American musical instrument and amplifier manufacturer is now providing its know-how in cooperation with Panasonic exclusively for Volkswagen. That is why the Beetle Cabriolet is available with an optional Fender sound system. Anyone choosing this system also receives an adjustable ambient illumination system for the interior which can be set to one of three colours (white, red or blue) and an MDI. In addition to indirect illumination in the door rail, it also includes a light ring around each speaker in the doors. The Fender sound system consists of two tweeters each installed in the rear view mirror triangles and rear side panelling. Woofers are contained in the front doors; the woofers behind the rear side panelling have single vibration coils. In addition a subwoofer is installed in a closed bass box integrated into the boot. The heart of the sound system is the 10-channel amplifier with Class A/B output stages and 400 watts of output power. In Europe, the Beetle and new Beetle Cabriolet are the only cars available with a Fender sound system.

Leather upholstery and sport seats. "Vienna" leather upholstery is available in a number of refined versions. In this case the Beetle Cabriolet is equipped with sport seats. These appointments also include the stowage pockets on the rear of the front seats as well as lumbar supports and heated front seats.

Bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights. For the first time Volkswagen is offering the Beetle Cabriolet with bi-xenon headlights. Here the bi-xenon modules are surrounded by 15 LEDs, which serve as daytime running lights and parking lights. In this case, LEDs are also used to illuminate the number plate.

Keyless Access. With the Keyless Access system door locks and ignition locks are a thing of the past. As soon as you touch the door handle, the system recognises the access authorisation from the transponder in your jacket, trouser pocket or purse and unlocks the Beetle Cabriolet, allowing you to start the engine with the "Press & Drive" button next to the gear knob. The Volkswagen is locked again from the outside as soon as you touch one of the door handles; in this case, on a surface marked especially for this purpose. From the middle of the year, Keyless Access will also enable opening and closing of the soft top via the car's remote control key.

Light alloy wheels. The basic version is available with 16-inch "Whirl" light alloy rims as well as the 17-inch light alloy "Rotor," "Turbine" and "Circle" versions. The "Circle" rims are offered in two colours: The "Circle White" version where the rims have a white enamel finish or the "Circle Black" model; the hub caps and wheel trims on both rims are chrome plated. The "Rotor" and "Turbine" wheels can be combined with all equipment versions; the "Circle" version is available only for the "Design" and "Sport" models. The fact that the Beetle Cabriolet has a sportier design than its predecessor is demonstrated particularly by the 18" rims. For instance the "Disc" version: Here a large, glossy disc or stylised hub cap is visually held in place by the eight webs of the rim flange. The 18-inch "Twister" rim also sets a sporty tone (matte black inside with bright aluminium spokes). Both 18" wheels can also be combined with any Beetle. This also applies for the 19-inch "Tornado" wheels offered in two colour versions; "Tornado Black" and "Tornado White" (except for TSI versions with 77 kW).

Volkswagen R GmbH accessories
Five sporty packages. Volkswagen R GmbH has developed various packages for the new Beetle Cabriolet, designed exclusively for sportiness. All features are offered under the label "R-Line."
R-Line exterior. This package includes the 18-inch "Twister" light alloy rims with 235 mm tyres, aluminium door sills (with R-Line monogram), a tyre pressure indicator and R-Line design bumper conceived especially for Volkswagen R GmbH.

R-Line Exterior / Interior. In this case the exterior package is supplemented by the following interior details: R-Line design dash pad, leather parking brake lever and gearshift knob, aluminium design leather steering wheel with R-Line logo, "Kyalami" design textile seat covers (side bolsters "San Remo" microfibre fabric) and front headrests with R-Line logo.

R-Line multifunction steering wheel. The "Exterior / Interior" package can be supplemented by an optional R-Line multifunction steering wheel.

R-line "Exterior / Interior" option package. A supplementary "Exterior / Interior" package with leather upholstery ("Vienna" Cool Leather) including heated seats is also available to customise your convertible further in R-Line style. Volkswagen's Cool Leather is designed to absorb less heat in the summer than other types of leather.

R-Line "Exterior / Interior" option package. As an alternative to "Vienna" leather, the leather package with heated seats is also offered in even finer "Semi-Nappa". This feature is also a supplement to the R-Line "Exterior / Interior" package.

Petrol and diesel engines
Volkswagen offers the Beetle Cabriolet in Europe exclusively with direct injection, four cylinder turbo-charged engines. The petrol engines (TSI) have output ratings of 77 kW / 105 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS; the diesel engines (TDI) develop 77 kW / 105 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS. Each of these engines can be combined with an optional dual clutch gearbox (six or seven-speed DSG) - a unique feature in this class. The efficiency of the new convertible is illustrated using the two 105 PS versions with BlueMotion Technology (Stop/Start system and battery regeneration). The TSI has an average fuel efficiency of 5.8l/100 km (134 g of CO2 per km); in the case of the TDI, this figure decreases to 4.5 l/100 km (118 g of CO2/km).

Cabriolet-specific acoustics. Volkswagen has matched the sound from the engine, or more correctly the exhaust system, to the basic dynamic layout of the Beetle Cabriolet. The demands for sporty performance were harmonised with the requirements for comfort. This classic conflict of interest was solved by precise tuning of the components reacting to the engine load (intake and flow in exhaust system), allowing the convertible to make a powerful, rich sound at full load as well as at medium to high speeds. With the most powerful engine (147 kW / 200 PS), the car is equipped with an exhaust system using absorption-type silencers for optimised flow. Thanks to reduced exhaust back-pressure, this system satisfies demands for high performance as well as economical operation, with convincing, powerful sound from just above idle as well as under partial load. The performance and efficiency data for the five engines are listed below:

Three petrol engines with outputs of 105 PS, 160 PS and 200 PS
1.2 TSI with output of 77 kW / 105 PS. The 1.2 TSI with 77 kW / 105 PS (at 5,000 rpm) is exceptionally efficient. This turbo-charged 1.2 litre four cylinder engine follows the downsizing principle in an extreme form. The result is maximum power with low fuel consumption and emission values (6.1 l/100 km and 142 g/km CO2). Nevertheless, the smallest TSI is distinguished by its astonishing performance. For example, the Beetle 1.2 TSI accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 11.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 178 km/h. The maximum torque of 175 Newton metres is available from just 1,550 rpm and remains constant up to 4,100 rpm. Even in fifth gear, the Beetle accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in only 16 seconds - providing an elasticity that can hardly be achieved by any conventionally aspirated engine with the same output. The Beetle 1.2 TSI is sold with a six-speed manual transmission as standard.

5.8 l/100 km. This engine can also be combined with an optional seven-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG). In this case the average fuel consumption is just 5.9 l/100 km (139 g/km CO2). Also optional is the 1.2 TSI engine with manual transmission and BlueMotion Technology (Stop/Start system and battery regeneration). Average fuel consumption: 5.8 l/100 km (134 g/km CO2 )

1.4 TSI with output of 118 kW / 160 PS. In the next higher performance category, Volkswagen equips the Beetle Cabriolet with a four cylinder engine with turbo-charger and supercharger (twin charger), providing an output of 118 kW / 160 PS (at 5,800 rpm). Specific output: 84.3 kW or 114.3 PS per litre of displacement. The maximum torque of 240 Newton metres is available from 1,500 rpm up to 4,500 rpm. The result is that this car requires just 11.0 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear; an astounding example of elasticity. The other performance values for the Beetle 1.4 TSI are also sporty: Acceleration to 100 km/h in only 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 206 km/h.

6.4 l/100 km. Just as with the 105 PS TSI, this engine is also extremely economical with fuel consumption of just 6.8 l/100 km; corresponding to a CO2 value of 158 g/km. Like all engines for the Beetle Cabriolet, this TSI can also be ordered with an optional DSG (dual clutch gearbox), in which case it is even more economical: 6.4 l/100 km (148 g/km CO2).

2.0 TSI with output of 147 kW / 200 PS. Our largest TSI engine has achieved cult status among fans of sporty Volkswagens. It develops its maximum output at 5,100 rpm. The maximum torque of 280 Newton metres is available at 1,700 rpm. The Beetle Cabriolet 2.0 TSI has a top speed of 223 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds.

The average fuel consumption for this turbo-charged engine is 7.5 l/100, and the corresponding CO2 value is 174 g/km. In the version with six-speed DSG, the engine requires only 7.8 l/km on average (183 g of CO2/km)

Two diesel engines with outputs of 105 PS and 160 PS
1.6 TDI with output of 77 kW / 105 PS. The 1.6 TDI is one of the world's most modern diesel engines. It has an output of 77 kW / 105 PS (at 4,400 rpm) and torque of 250 Nm (from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm). As with all Volkswagen TDI engines featuring common rail direct injection, this four cylinder, four valve engine guarantees optimal acoustic characteristics, high agility and extremely low fuel consumption and emission values. Naturally, the Beetle Cabriolet 1.6 TDI is equipped with a particulate filter. On the motorway the Beetle Cabriolet 1.6 TDI has a top speed of 178 km/h (five-speed) or 176 km/h (DSG). The classic acceleration value from 0 to 100 km/h is 12.1 seconds for all versions with this engine.

4.5 l/100 km. The 105 PS diesel engine is extremely economical, with a fuel consumption value of 4.7 l/100 km (124 g of CO2/km). This engine can optionally be ordered with the seven-speed DSG gearbox. In this case, the average fuel consumption is just 4.9 l/100 km (128 g/km CO2). However, the fuel consumption values for both versions can be reduced even further by ordering the 1.6 TDI with BlueMotion Technology (with Stop/Start system and battery regeneration). In this case, both versions (with five-speed gearbox or seven-speed DSG) have extremely low fuel consumption values of just 4.5 l/100 km (five-speed: 118 g of CO2/km, seven-speed DSG: 119 g of CO2/km).

2.0 TDI with output of 103 kW / 140 PS. The most powerful diesel for the new Beetle Cabriolet is the common rail TDI engine with 103 kW / 140 PS (at 4,200 rpm). This high torque turbo-diesel (320 Nm at 1,750 rpm) can be ordered with six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed DSG.

On average the TDI engine requires only 5.1 l/100 km (134 g of CO2/km). With the six-speed DSG, the fuel consumption is 5.6 l/100 km (145 g of CO2/km). With either gearbox the Beetle Cabriolet accelerates from 0 to 100 km in 9.9 seconds; the top speed is 196 km/h (DSG: 193 km/h).

Suspension
In comparison to that on the New Beetle Cabriolet, the suspension on the Beetle Cabriolet has been completely redesigned. At the front Volkswagen uses suspension struts with coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers. The rear suspension consists of a four-link axle for exceptionally good handling and comfort. The rear suspension was adapted from that on the Golf and is one of the most elaborate and safest designs of its type in the compact class. The electro-mechanical power steering is easy-moving and extremely precise.

XDS for engines above 160 PS
To ensure that the power in the two most powerful Beetle versions reaches the road properly, models with outputs of 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS are equipped with XDS as standard. XDS is a supplementary function of the electronic differential lock and improves both traction and handling. During rapid cornering, as soon as the electronic circuitry detects slip on the inside wheel, the electronic stabilisation program builds up brake pressure on the wheel in question, thus increasing the traction. The XDS therefore acts in the same manner as a limited slip differential, compensating for understeer in fast curves.