These are the first images of the new Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet. 

 

Unlike its predecessor, the Beetle Cabriolet features a soft-top which folds in ten seconds and the roof “lies very flat, enabling good vision to the rear”.

 

Seven engine options will be available overseas, much like the hatchback model. A 103bhp, 1.2-litre TSI petrol engine will be available from launch, with a Bluemotion Technology version soon after. A 158bhp, 1.4 TSI and 197bhp, 2.0 TSI will complete the petrol range. Diesel variants will include a 103bhp, 1.6-litre TDI offered with the option of Bluemotion Technology, and a 138bhp, 2.0-litre TDI. However, we expect fewer engine options to be offered in India.

 

Volkswagen confirmed that the Beetle Cabriolet will feature the hatchback’s multllink front and torsion beam rear suspension. Only the 2.0 TSI model will carry a more sophisticated four-link rear arrangement.

 

Like the Beetle hatchback, the Cabriolet will be built in Volkswagen’s plant in Puebla, Mexico, sharing the same platform as the Jetta.

 

The Cabriolet will be fitted with an active rollover protection system, featuring two extendable modules behind the rear seat backs. These are activated in the event of a rollover, via the airbag control unit. Volkswagen says the system will deploy in milliseconds, providing front and rear protection for all four occupants. 

 

We expect the hatchback version of this latest Beetle to be launched in India sometime next year, but it is unclear whether or not Volkswagen will bring this soft-top version here.