Volkswagen->ke94 already offers a Cabriolet version for their standard Golf VI model, but the 2012 Geneva Motor Show will set the stage for the unveiling of the GTI Convertible. In fact, this model has already been previewed with the unveiling of the Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet Concept last year, but of course the production model does not look as aggressive as the concept.

The new GTI Convertible carries the typical visual trademarks of the GTI that include red framing at the top and bottom of the radiator grille, a large air inlet screen, a new rear diffuser and chrome tailpipes on the left and right under the rear bumper.

Under the hood you will find the usual 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 210 HP and sprints the car from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds (0.4 seconds slower than the GTI hatch) and up to a top speed of 147 mph.

Updated 02/29/2012: This review has been updated with the official details, images and specs. Hit the jump to read more about the new Volkswagen Golf GTI Convertible.

2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Convertible

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI Convertible
  • Horsepower: 208
  • Torque: 206 @ 1700
  • Transmission: six-speed manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

The exterior

Just like with the standard Golf GTI hatchback the new convertible version will be featuring the typical visual trademarks of the GTI that include red framing at the top and bottom of the radiator grille, a large air inlet screen, a new rear diffuser and chrome tailpipes on the left and right under the rear bumper. Customers will also receive the usual dark-red LED rear lights, LED licence plate illumination and side sill extensions. A set of 17" "Denver" type alloy wheels will be offered as standard, but a set of 18" alloys are offered as an option.

Just like with the standard Golf Cabriolet the new GTI Cabrio will be featuring a fabric top that is operated electro-hydraulically and takes just 9.5 seconds to open (and 11 seconds to close). The top may also be operated while driving at speeds of up to 18 mph.

The interior

If you had the pleasure of driving a standard Golf GTI then you should know what to expect when it comes about the interior of the Cabrio version. The car will be offered with sport seats upholstered in the classic and timeless tartan fabric (‘Jacky’), but as an option you can also get leather seats.

The pedals feature brushed stainless steel caps, while the GTI gear shift lever has been finished in aluminum. The leather-trimmed steering wheel features a GTI emblem and naturally the steering wheel, gear shift cover and leather trim of the parking brake lever have decorative red seams.

The engine

Under the hood you will find the same engine as in the GTI hatch: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 210 HP and 206 lbs ft of torque at just 1,700rpm. It will be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed DSG (dual clutch gearbox) version. Both gearboxes send the power of the turbocharged petrol direct-injection engine to the front axle.

The new GTI Cabrio sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds (0.4 seconds slower than the GTI hatch) and goes up to a top speed of 147 mph.

Prices

You should have your GTI Convertible ready for the summer. prices will be announced at a later date.

The competition

Finding a real competitor for the new GTI Cabrio will be a little bit difficult because none of the competitors for the standard GTI do not offer a cabrio version. These models are: Focus RS->ke438, Mazda3 MPS or Subaru WRX. So until we will see a cabrio model for one of these three models the new GTI Cabrio can relax.