New Yet Classical

While incorporating Volkswagen's latest design concept, "The Beetle" has moved closer to the design of the first generation compared to its predecessor, the "New Beetle." The production model of its open-top version, "The Beetle Cabriolet," will finally be unveiled to the world at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This "The Beetle Cabriolet," the third generation since the first "Beetle Cabriolet" appeared in 1949 and was manufactured until 1980, is longer by 152mm and wider by 84mm compared to its predecessor, while its height has been reduced by 29mm, creating a wide and low stance.



The roof employs the traditional soft top. This soft top can be opened or closed while driving at speeds below 50 km/h. The operation takes 9.5 seconds to open and 11 seconds to close. Furthermore, the trunk capacity is secured at 225 liters, regardless of whether the soft top is open or closed. This is 24 liters more than the previous "New Beetle Cabriolet."



The standard "roll-over protection system" is designed to instantly deploy two modules stored behind the rear seatbacks in the event of a rollover, protecting the occupants. In addition, safety is enhanced through features such as side airbags with head protection for the front seats.



The engine lineup includes three gasoline units: a 1.2-liter TSI producing a maximum output of 77 kW, a 1.4-liter TSI producing 118 kW, and a 2.0-liter TSI producing 147 kW. The diesel engines are a 1.6-liter TDI with a maximum output of 77 kW and a 2.0-liter TDI producing 103 kW. The available transmissions are a 6-speed manual transmission, a 6-speed DSG, and a 7-speed DSG.



Following its world premiere in the United States, "The Beetle Cabriolet" will be released immediately, with deliveries in Europe expected to begin around February of next year. Its arrival in Japan will likely be after that, but we eagerly await its launch.