Volkswagen announces Golf GTI Cabriolet

After selling over 1.8 million Golf GTI cars since its debut 36 years ago, Volkswagen is now launching the first open-top version of the icon: the Golf GTI Cabriolet with 207bhp. The convertible, which sports such standard features as an electric soft-top, air conditioning, electric windows, an audio system and a roll-over protection system, will begin arriving at dealers in mid-June; the open-top GTI is offered at prices from 31,350 (AED 147,000) euros in Germany.

It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and accelerates from 0-100kmph in 7.3 seconds. Its top speed is 237kmph (DSG: 235 km/h). The company claims a combined fuel consumption of 7.6-l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 177 g/km (DSG: 7.7 l/100 km and 180 g/km CO2). The Golf GTI is also the only convertible in the compact class up to 207bhp to be offered with a dual clutch gearbox.
Visually, typical GTI features distinguish the convertible. Exterior GTI trademarks include the red-framed radiator grille with honeycomb structure and GTI signature, the front GTI bumper, a new rear diffuser, chrome tailpipes, LED rear lights, side sill extensions and standard 17-inch 'Denver' alloy wheels. Inside, the convertible is identified as a GTI by its sport seats upholstered in classic 'Jacky' tartan fabric.
The soft top of the Golf Cabriolet, with a basic construction already designed for high speeds, was adopted 1:1 for the GTI. Its standard electro-hydraulic drive opens the top in 9.0 seconds. It can also be operated while driving at speeds of up to 30 km/h.