VW Beetle droptop new for 2013
The 2013 model year welcomes an all-new Beetle Convertible for German automaker, Volkswagen.
Its iconic heritage and styling have carried through over the decades, and the third generation builds upon the foundation to make it even more relevant.
Hitting the streets early this year, the Beetle now has a longer wheelbase, is dimensionally longer and wider, yet is shorter in height. It also manages to shed 19 kilograms in the process.
In addition, there’s an increase in rear shoulder room and headroom, as well as trunk space.
While it still maintains its unmistakable silhouette (see cover photo), it is more modern in execution and definitely sleeker.
Slippinginside,theredesigned cabin is what I’d expect from VW: clean-looking, easy to operate and visually pleasing.
When it comes to engines and transmissions, there is only one currently being offered. That’s the 2.5-litre, five-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic. There’s an output of 170 horsepower — which is up 20 ponies from the last generation — and 177 footpounds of torque, which is up seven from the last generation.
The pairing of the two isn’t bad at all. It still has pep and poise despite its humble horsepower figures.
For those wanting a little more spunk, a turbo version is scheduled to arrive later this year. And for diesel fans, there’s a possibility of a TDI version as well. But that has yet to be confirmed.
VW hosted a group of international media in Santa Monica, Calif., to take their new droptop for a spin. The weather wasn’t the most favourable, but there was still time to romp along the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway and into the SoCal hills topless.
The cloth soft top of the Beetle Convertible is fully automatic, making it even easier to get your daily dose of Vitamin D, provided the sun is shining. On the way down, it takes 9.5 seconds to retract. On the way up, it’s just a smidge longer at 11 seconds. That said, you’re also able to operate the roof while driving at up to speeds of 50 km/h.
That’s a great feature, especially if you’re in slow traffic and it happens to start drizzling or even pouring. There’s no need to get out and fiddle with the roof manually. It’s all operated by the press of a button.
Speaking of being topless, the roof doesn’t take up any trunk space when in the lowered position. After all its dimensional changes, there’s 7.1 cubic feet of cargo room in the trunk.
While that might not be exceptionally impressive, that’s an increase of 2.1 cubic feet from the last generation.
Furthermore, the opening to the hatch is 32.5 inches (826 mm), so some larger ticket items are able to slide through.
And if you need more space for your stuff, the 50/50 folding rear seats help out quite a bit.
With the top up, improved sound-deadening materials were installed to make sure the cabin stays relatively quiet. Of course, there is a little outside noise heard, but it’s not deafening. There’s also some engine noise heard, but again, it’s not a dealbreaker.
Bumps and jumps are kept at bay through the Beetle’s comfortable suspension, yet it still offers a little bit of sportiness to appease those who want something extra.
When it comes to Beetle Convertible trims, two are available: the Comfortline ($28,775) — which has an MSRP of $1,800 less than the outgoing model — and the Highline ($31,740).
Standard features on the Comfortline i nclude 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, leatherette seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth, heated seats, hill hold assist and more. Upgrade to the Highline trim and that gives you 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, fog lights, keyless entry, an exterior chrome package and then some.
Optional equipment comes in the form of the Technology package, which is an additional $1,290. A touch-screen navigation system, Sirius satellite radio and a Fender premium audio system are included.
Having driven the Highline trim with the Technology package, I can say I’m a fan. The Fender system sounds great, top up or down.
The GPS is also a favourite of mine. Despite having a functional internal compass, it’s always a handy feature when abroad.
Overall, I like what VW has done with the Beetle Convertible thanks to its list of standard features, a cool new look and a pleasant ride.