Volkswagen Drops the Top on the New, New Beetle

The redesigned modern VolkswagenVolkswagenGermany, 1938 > present98 models
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BeetleVolkswagen Beetle (modern) Gen.2 [A5]Germany, 2011 > present118 versions
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has debuted in its convertible guise that will launch in Europe in the spring of 2013 and fourth quarter in the US. 

The new design uses the flatter roof from redesigned Beetle but covers it in fabric. Volkswagen says that it has flattened the roof to give the car a sportier look, but it also gives the car a more classic appearance. The rest of the car remains remarkably the same as the hard top car. The rear holds 225 liter with the top up compared to 310 liters from the hard top version. Both cars feature 60:40 split rear seats. 

When the top is open, it sits flat but exposed. It does not obstruct the view out of the rear. The cloth top can open and close automatically in about 10 seconds at up to 48km/h (30mph). The top comes with a cover that hides it, if the driver intends to keep the top down for longer periods. The beltline is surrounded by a chrome strip all the way around the car. 

For safety, the rear headrests extend in the event of a rollover, and front head-thorax airbags are standard. 

In Europe, the Beetle Convertible will be offered with seven engines. The base engine is the 1.2-liter TSI with 104hp, and there will also be a BlueMotion version that adds stop/start. There will also be a 1.4-liter TSI with 158hp and a 2.0-liter TSI with 197hp. The convertible will also be offered with a 1.6-liter TDI with 104hp and a 2.0-liter TDI with 138hp.

In the US buyers will have three engine options. The base engine will be 2.5-liter five-cylinder with 170hp and 177lb-ft of torque with a six-speed automatic. There will be a 2.0 TDI with 140hp and 236lb-ft of torque with either a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG. Finally, there will be a 2.0 TSI with 200hp and 207lb-ft of torque and either a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG. 

The Beetle Convertible will start at €21,350 including 19% German VAT, which means that its base price without applicable taxes in Europe is €17,293.50. Orders will open in Europe in November. 

Volkswagen has not announced US prices yet but says that it will closer to launch.