New Beetle Cabriolet to replace Golf Cabrio in 2003

Ajax, Ontario - Volkswagen Canada announced that the New Beetle Cabriolet will replace the VW Cabrio (a convertible version of the Golf) in 2003. The last Cabrio left Volkswagen's factory in Puebla, Mexico this summer. The 2003 New Beetle convertible will be officially introduced at the North American International Auto Show in January 2003.

Versions of the Golf Cabrio have been on sale for the past 23 years. Volkswagen first introduced the Rabbit (later Golf) convertible in North America in 1979. It succeeded the original Beetle Convertible that left the market the same year.

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Reports in the British national press on July 19 have stated that the New Beetle convertible will be unveiled at next January's Detroit Auto Show and go on sale in the UK during the summer of 2003.

Apparently, all models will come with a choice of 1.4, 1.6, 1.8T and 2.0-litre petrol engines, and a 1.9-litre 100bhp TDI.

Although basic variants are unlikely to be loaded with luxury options, ABS and ESP (electronic stabilisation programme) and front and side airbags should be standard equipment. Prices here are expected to start at 15,000 pounds.

all Volkswagen Group communications and photos reproduced with permission of Volkswagen UK