Revised VW GTI Cabriolet Debuts, but Still No Plans to Come to the U.S.

Volkswgen GTI Cabriolet (Credit: © Volkswagen)

The VW GTI is far and away one of the most desirable hot-hatches in the U.S., but there is a whole other level of awesomeness that roams the streets of Europe. I am talking about the GTI Cabriolet, of course. Volkswagen launched the GTI Cabriolet in 2012, getting American buyers amped for some topless shenanigans. Unfortunately, that never happened, as the Germans chose to keep it on their home continent. Today, VW has announced a slew of upgrades to the convertible GTI, none of which included a ticket to the U.S.

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This new GTI Cabriolet earns the same upgraded powertrain as its fixed-top sibling, as it now includes a 10-horse bump to 220 horsepower from its 2.0-liter turbocharged powerplant. This small but potent engine mates to a standard six-speed dual-clutch transmission that pushes the power to the front wheels. This all adds up to a 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) time of 6.9 seconds. What’s more, standard stop/start helps keep efficiency at its peak in stop-and-go traffic.

The chassis also gets a nice upgrade for the new model year, as VW has added its Adaptive Chassis Control and Brooklyn 17-inch rolling stock standard.

The new model year also ushers in the inclusion of the Light & Sight package as standard equipment on the GTI Cabriolet. This package tosses in neat features like rain sensors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, illuminated footwells, and auto daytime running lights. Inside, buyers will also find a new multifunction steering wheel wrapped up in leather with red contrast stitching.

The only changes of note to the exterior are its optional rear spoiler and the option of adding in a red fabric top.

The new Golf GTI Cabriolet will start from €37,075 ($40,571), but VW did not announce when it will start rolling into dealers.