Volkswagen has launched a GTI version of the new Volkswagen Golf cabriolet at the Geneva motor show. It will be available to order in the UK in July ahead of first deliveries in September.
The 207bhp/207lb ft drop-top (VW’s most powerful and first GTI Golf convertible to date), will crack the sprint to 62mph from standing in 7.3sec before reaching a top speed of 147mph (146mph with DSG).
VW claims fuel consumption of 37.2mpg with emissions of 177g/km of Co2. By contrast, the tin-top version of the same car achieves 38.7mpg and 170g/km of Co2.
The hydraulically operated cloth roof takes 9.5 seconds to open and can be operated up to speeds of 18mph.
Features of VW’s hot cabriolet car ape those of the standard GTI’s. These include the model’s red-rimmed radiator grille, GTI bumpers, rear diffuser and 17-inch ‘Monza’ alloys, which are wrapped in 225/45 rubber. Tartan sports seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel also make the list.
With the roof down, the Golf GTI cabriolet’s boot can swallow a class-leading 250 litres; a Mini convertible musters exactly half this figure. Prices are yet to be revealed, but it is expected to cost just over £27,000.
