Volkswagen’s third generation Beetle Cabriolet makes its global debut at the Los Angeles motor show at the end of November.
Over 330,000 units of the original Beetle Cabriolet were produced from 1949 to 1980. For the second generation of the ‘modern’ Beetle convertible, Volkswagen has given the silhouette a sportier and more dynamic look wirth flatter roofline and more upright windshield more like the ’49 original.
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The traditional soft top now lies very flat when folded, improving rear vision. All models have automatic opening and closing in around 10 seconds at speeds up to 30mph (50km/h).
A soft top cover is standard and surrounding chrome trim accentuates the borders between steel and fabric. As in other G2 new Beetle models, the compact instrument panel with extra large round instrument cluster and several nostalgic elements, such as the additional glove box, are markedly different from the outgoing model with its far deeper dash panel.
An active rollover protection system consists of two extendable modules fitted behind the rear bench seat. If the car were to roll over, the two rollover modules would be activated via the central airbag triggering unit. Along with the fixed A-pillars, they provide effective protection for the occupants of all four seats within a matter of milliseconds. Another extra safety feature is the standard front and head-thorax airbag system.
UK market models on sale from next spring will be available with seven engines including petrol 1.2-litre and diesel 1.6-litre units with BlueMotion technology.
