With just a few days before the official debut at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen has revealed the official details on the convertible version for their Golf model. The model will go on sale starting tomorrow, and in Germany the prices will start from 23.625 euro - or about $32,000 at the current exchange rates. All of the features offered in the classic, hard top Golf are also available in the new Golf Cabriolet.

The new Golf Cabrio will be offered with a choice of six gasoline engines, with power ranging from 105 to 210 HP. A diesel engine will also be offered combined with BlueMotion Technology.

The first distinctive feature is the car's innovative soft top with an electro-hydraulic drive that opens the Golf’s top in just 9.5 seconds. It can be operate while driving at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

Hit the jump to read more about the Volkswagen Golf Cabrio.

2012 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

Specifications
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  • Model: 2012 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet
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Pros
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Exterior and Interior

Compared to the standard Golf, the Cabrio version will feature a new rear section, lower profile roof line and more swept-back angle of its front windscreen frame. The model will be distinguished by optional bi-xenon headlights, LED rear lights like those of the GTI, automatically deploying roll-over bar, front airbags, side head/thorax airbags, knee airbag for the driver and ESP.

The new Golf is one of the quietest convertibles today. Its soothing quietness is attributable to the new soft top that was optimized in specific ways. It also has a standard hydraulic drive that opens the Golf’s top extremely quickly. The top can also be opened or closed during driving at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

The Engine

The new Golf Cabrio will be offered with a choice of six turbocharged direct-injection engines that will deliver between 105 and 210 HP. Four of the petrol engines (TSI) and one diesel (TDI) are available with the DSG dual-clutch gearbox; while three of the engines are available with energy-saving BlueMotion Technology. The 1,6 TDI engine delivers 105 HP and is combined with BlueMotion Technology for a fuel consumption of only 4,4 liter/100 km.

The competition

The future Cabrio version will only be offered for the three-door version. It will be Volkswagen's own alternative for the not so successful Eos Convertible, and will target models like Audi A3 Cabrio and even the BMW 1-Series Convertible.

While waiting for the new A3 Cabrio, we will talk about the current model. It is offered with a choice of five engine options, comprising two economical TDI diesels and three high-efficiency gasoline-fueled units, ranging from 105 to 200 HP.

On the other hand, the 1-Series Cabrio has already been updated, but the major modification being made for the 135i, which will see its 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine dropped in favor of a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that delivers 300 HP and 300 lbs-ft of torque.

Prices

Volkswagen will bring the new Golf Cabio at the Geneva Motor Show, with sales to begin at a price of 23.625 euro - or about $32,000 at the current exchange rates.