(continued from above)
XDS is standard, DSG optional. At launch, customers can specify either 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. At a low 1,700 rpm, the engine develops a maximum torque of 207
lb-ft (280 Nm), which stays constant up to 5,300 rpm - its torque curve has an
ideal plateau and is actually not curved at all. To convert engine power into
incredible forward propulsion, the Cabriolet is not only equipped with
electronic differential locks (EDS) in its ESP system; the GTI Cabriolet also
has the XDS transverse differential lock as standard. Even in full accelerations
out of bends, the XDS system - also integrated in ESP - ensures optimal grip and
driving stability.
Exterior Design
The convertible exhibits typical visual trademarks of the GTI. On the exterior,
they are the red framing at the top and bottom of the radiator grille with its
honeycomb structure and GTI signature, the front GTI bumper with a large air
inlet screen (also honeycomb) and the typical vertically arranged fog lights, a
new rear diffuser and chrome tailpipes on the left and right under the rear
bumper. Similar to the GTI with a 'permanent hard top', this GTI also has
dark-red LED rear lights, LED license plate illumination and side sill
extensions. The classic wheels on the GTI are the standard 17-inch 'Denver' type
alloys with their five prominent openings, fitted with 225/45 tires. Showing the
same styling, but with a machine-polished surface and contrasting black inner
surfaces are optional 18-inch alloy wheels for the Golf GTI Cabriolet - known as
'Detroit' (tire size: 225/40).
GTI Interior Styling
The interior of the new Cabriolet matches that of the classic GTI (except for a
more raked windscreen frame and special rear bench). It also has sport seats
upholstered in the classic and timeless tartan fabric ('Jacky'), and leather
seats ('Vienna') are available as an option. Integrated in the seats is a lumbar
support, which is activated by a lever on the side of the seat. Naturally, this
convertible also has pedals with brushed stainless steel caps, and a unique GTI
gear shift lever in aluminum look; and of course a leather-trimmed steering
wheel with grip recesses and a GTI emblem; and naturally the steering wheel,
gear shift cover and leather trim of the parking brake lever have decorative red
seams; and the interior lining of the soft top is black as are the trim covers
of the roof pillars. All of these are typical GTI features. And so the
decorative inlays in the doors and instrument panels are GTI-specific as well:
in 'Black Stripe' - black, high-gloss accents in metallic look. Also standard:
automatic climate control (Climatronic), chrome surrounds (e.g. around switches
for the lights, electric windows, mirrors) and the RCD 210 radio-CD system.
2012 VW Golf GTI Cabrio, rear view.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet: Review (2/2)
