2012 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF CABRIOLET REVIEW

As more than 680,000 units of VW convertibles built before the new Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet also features a classic soft top - that is, a cloth cover. Why steel mesh and not on the Eos? A look at the new model is indicative of a length of 4,246 mm, the Golf Cabriolet has a much more compact than the Eos 4423 mm long. Both vehicles were completely independent approaches to style, design and performance position.

The top of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

Although the fabric used on the top of the Volkswagen Golf, a four-seater convertible is one of the quietest. Its soothing quiet ride thanks to the sophisticated design with the fabric roof and new windows, doors and seals. Wind noise at high frequencies above 5000 Hz is seen as a particularly annoying because they make it difficult to discuss the travel (articulation index). Volkswagen has examined the articulation index for an in-depth and evaluated the experiences of other vehicles. Results for: Golf Cabriolet convertible really sets new standards for sound.

The pavilion consists of a link, a headliner through the insulating layer of filling and cover. Perfection in daily practice: the development team designed the joints of the outer longitudinal joints tissues (central and two side panel) to serve as an additional channel. aerodynamic perfection, mounted between the longitudinal reinforcement of the link above for a total of four arches of the roof and across the bow in front is called the ceiling (the first member of the main cross behind the windshield frame). In turn, the bell is attached to the roof bows in the bands of tissue screw. Therefore, even at high speed, soft top is not filled with air. And this has a positive effect on aerodynamics.

When the roof is stored, the upper surface of the front cover of the arch covering the upper surface of the storage box. This eliminates the need for a separate envelope. The results: the highest standard fully automatic opening of electro-hydraulic (9.0 seconds), and the company (11.0 seconds) faster. Moreover, it is necessary to descend so deeply into the greater bootspace (250 liters with the roof up or down).

The summit is operated from a central switch in the center console. Opening and closing is even possible to run - at speeds up to 30 km / h. Two hydraulic pumps operated by a central switch to generate the necessary pressure. Even in this area has received special care to ensure the least possible noise generated, for example, the hydraulic unit is closed by the insulation. Unlocking and locking the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet soft top is secured by a locking electromechanical. It works fully automatically. This means that no further manual opening or closing is necessary. The system detects, by 2 micro-switches, the roof is open or closed, and it informs the driver of the OK state by a beep and a visual message (in the multifunction display).

To ensure a good view behind the car, was the top of the heated rear glass window designed to be particularly important for a cabriolet, it is connected to the hood of what is known as high-frequency welding.

Golf Cabriolet Safety

Rollover protection: Since 1979, when the first Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet was introduced, all generations of the models in this series had a roll bar. Should be, because in the early years of the Golf Cabrio automatic deployment of the protection of bearing systems had not been invented yet. When such systems first emerged in late 1980 that were hardly suitable for affordable car as a Golf Cabriolet. This changed in 2003, when Volkswagen introduced the New Beetle Cabriolet with ROPS can be done from behind the rear seats. The system was modified for the Eos, and - in the final stages of development - now is the protection of the occupants of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet too.

The protection element bearings used in the golf course behind the rear headrests in 0.25 seconds, the vehicle exceeds a preset angle or lateral acceleration. The system consists of two aluminum rolling modules and mobile aluminum is strained by a spring. The internal profile is maintained in its neutral position by a magnetic switch. When activated by the driver airbag in response to an impending rollover, the valve opens a first class maintenance and frees the internal profile. Although stops, sale of excess of gear runway extension fitted to the inner profile and prevents the internal profile of falling.

The highlight of the redesigned system Golf: 2 deployable units are designed for much smoother. For the first time Volkswagen convertible with the introduction of roll-over, it was possible through-loading, with a width of 526 mm and a height of 381 mm, including folding rear seat. At first it was just a pass through this area.

Council of reinforcements: the Golf Cabriolet offers maximum security with its system of protection against overturning, a reinforced windshield frame and many structural changes (bottom panels, side panels, railings, doors). Thanks to its numerous reinforcements, 4.25 meters long, 1.78 m wide (recharge) 1.42 meters Golf Cabriolet also features extreme torsional stiffness. Some of these reinforcements are visible when the convertible will be seen later, such as the Cabrio and a "normal" golf stands on a raised platform. In a visual comparison, the observer can see significant differences in the swing. In front, the convertible has an aluminum hood, with mounting brackets, which increases stiffness. In addition, the motor bracket, which acts as a vibration damper, adds sophistication to the front.

On either side of the car, 2 side reinforcements in the sill area and 2 diagonal front and rear, and common wire reinforced cradle to further increases in stiffness and a significant reduction of the vibration of the body resonance.

This is known as the static torsional stiffness coefficient reaches a value of more than 13,500 Nm per degree, the first torsional resonance frequency is above 17.5 Hz - first class for a convertible. And this rigidity, which is also a crucial factor in the stability and optimum driving comfort is remarkable journey. Meanwhile, the body protects against rust galvanized car.

Convertible airbags Specific protection systems completion Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet reinforcements to the front doors and side airbags and standard head-thorax. The latter is specially designed for a convertible, because it is of course possible to mount the head airbags in the roof surface. head-thorax airbags built into the sides of the issue, so use adjacent to any driver and front passenger height inside the Golf Cabriolet. A knee airbag standard has also been integrated into the driver's side. As part of the seat belt, airbag absorbs the energy of the pelvic region and legs, which leads to reduced occupant load. go further: Thank knee airbag, the driver is built in deceleration mode of the car before using the thigh and pelvis. It triggers the torso rotation precisely, so that the driver's air bag may come in contact with the support and the upper body at an optimum angle.

The knee airbag mode of operation shows the true complexity of the interconnection of security systems.

Styling for the VW Golf Cabriolet

The front end: front view, this convertible is a typical golf course. Although the Cabriolet is an even more sporty from this point of view, because the tapered windshield. In particular, a dynamic picture of the results of Convertible ordered with the optional bi-xenon headlamps. In this case, the set consists of 15 light LED lights automatically integrated into the two apartments.

Rear Smoked LED tail lights were changed to three five-door Golf. Of course, the designers and engineers redesigned the rear thereof. Cabriolet bootlid extends down into the bumper, and a lot of adjustments up, so it's easy to pack your bags and shopping destinations. The stylish chrome trim strip form a visual contrast of soft and bootlid edge, this is a continuous chrome strip extends to the columns.

Side profile: profile page, 3 convertible design features particularly attractive to the eye: more swept back windscreen, visually very quick start and smooth style, included in these lines. When the soft side down, Golf Cabriolet is an elegant, full look. Once until the beginning of a compact design and sharp lines around the imaginary C-pillars and the boot reflect the unique character of the previous model and transfer it to the contemporary age - extends throughout the decade .

By default, leave the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Osnabrück works with a weight-optimized 16-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers attractive and 205 tires. Five different alloy wheels are also available (a 16-inch, three 17-inch, 18 inch).

Indoor Golf Cabriolet

Very clearly - Golf Cabriolet version of the quality of design standards and materials hardtop Golf Classic 1:01 inside. This leads to a refinement, which is otherwise available only in much more expensive convertible. As before, the Eos, Golf Cabriolet differs from many other compact cars in a key aspect of it: windshield frame is pleasantly short, optimizing convertible feeling. In addition, the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet offers the largest internal length of the class. Guests Behind the special message of 833 millimeters in the legs effectively.

Like the design applied in Eos, the activation switch is built in the center console between the driver's and passenger. features redesigned the rear seat and seat cushion materials. Golf Cabriolet also has a convenient Easy Entry front seats as standard, making it easier for rear passengers enter and exit the car.

There is a hand bag hooks in side panels of the shoe of 250 liters, which is located just off the hooks are mechanisms to lock remotely registration division 50:50 folding rear seat. When the folder is folded, thereby increasing the additional storage capacity through the grand opening of pass-through.

The democratization of convertibility

In 1979, Volkswagen had already been opened to drive the democratization of the VW Golf Cabriolet. Paving the way for the democratic movement, thirty years ago, it was Beetle Convertible. New Golf Cabriolet reflect this philosophy. Another aspect of the link to his legendary predecessor, also remove it from the confines of the classroom. Oh, and try to understand the drivers of the bank balance of a man or woman really a waste of time.

Golf Cabriolet Standard Features

When placed on the market in Germany, from the model at a price of € 23,625 (VW Golf Cabriolet 1.2 TSI of 77 kW / 105 hp). It is obviously more than a comparable Golf Trendline fitted with sunroof, but it is much less than most other four-seat convertibles in this class. The price difference compared to the conventional structure "hard top" Golf is due to activation and body reinforcements hood, including the transmission electro-hydraulic system and advanced asset protection against rollover. Thus, the new Golf making it easier to choose to run all year in a convertible. And its portfolio of standard features is long enough already.

What you get for € 23 625? A four-seat convertible with a fully automatic soft top, automatic installation of protection against overturning, a framework for strong windshield, an efficient network of air bags and ESP, including Hill Climb assist, support lock and cons and trailer stabilization, and fires. This is a brief outline of its functions related to security. But Golf Cabriolet 1.2 TSI has more to offer ...

As the Eos, Passat CC, Touareg and Phaeton, Volkswagen is offering a single line intentionally equipment for the Golf Cabriolet. Therefore, the comparison with the Golf Trendline hard top is not perfect, and that the Cabrio has features, both inside and outside, or developments that are or have been adapted advanced lines toughest teams in the top counterpart .

Standard features outdoors: In front of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is equipped with chrome trim on the grille fins, and on the back he has smoked LED taillights and a bumper-style sports. Driving a pillar to pillar, a chrome strip surrounds the side windows and the soft top. green-tinted glass thermal insulation, 205 tires in a 16-inch wheel covers optimized weight and of course the hard electro-hydraulic hood: Also standard.

Standard interior features and functions: Many of the features of the interior of the car are the basic details that have a positive impact on life on board. These include air conditioning, reading lights in front (2), Hill Climb Assist, the length and height adjustable steering wheel and - BlueMotion models Technology - stop / start system and brake energy recovery system (renewal of battery.) Standard features include electric door mirrors, electro-mechanical power steering, remote central locking, radio, and the dust and pollen filter with activated carbon added. Constant: adjustable comfort seats (front) and upholstery 'Scout', chrome is to change the keys of power windows, decorative chrome surrounds around the instruments and vents, numerous storage areas, Easy Entry to the rear passengers and a 3-spoke steering wheel, which offers a good grip.

The glovebox can be cooled, and the rear seat folded back with a 50:50 distribution.

Buyers add the system RCD 310 radio / CD with the setup of the car for 655 euros - with 6 speakers, 4 x 20 watts of audio, MP3 function, AUX-IN multimedia tuner and dual power - pay A total of € 24,280 and really have everything you need to enjoy life in the convertible.

Optional Features Golf Cabriolet

Despite this, it must have enough room to adjust the car, as represented by a bit 'of freedom. Along with a classic extra person, 7 pre-packs are available for the new Golf convertible, which offers a combination of price advantage, "Performance", "Design & Style," "Comfort", "Technology," "Light & Sight" "Mirror" and "Winter" packages.

Buyers can choose between new Cabriolet 2 packages "Performance" and "Design & Style." Design & Style "is essentially the rate of expansion first to Volkswagen and even more exclusive sport." Performance ", meanwhile, includes all functions of "Design & Style" Package and adds many other details like leather upholstery. The two packages are combined with alloy wheels.

"Design & Style Pack"

Those who choose "Design & Style" pack (910 euros) is treated as features sport seats with new upholstery styles of Alcantara (panel seat center) and "catch up" padding (lateral seat supports), a 3-spoke steering wheel "Leather Cool" (less heat in sunlight), pedals with stainless steel lid, leather-wrapped parking brake handle and gear lever, sewing chrome on the light switch, rotary switches chrome the mirror control, "Black Stripe" trim for instrument panel and door trim, map pockets on the backs of front seats and lumbar support in front.

"Performance Pack"

The "Performance Pack" (€ 3295) includes, in addition to "Design & Style details, features like leather upholstery in" Vienna "style (" Cool Leather ") with the seat heater and lumbar supports in front, carpet woven floor, a rain sensor and automatic dimming rear view mirror, stainless steel pedals, chrome accents other exterior and bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, dynamic and static cornering lights, automatic lights in "Leaving Home" and "Coming Home" features lighting, LED license plate lights and the fog of technology with chrome trim. The "Performance Pack" is combined with an audio systems.

"Comfort Pack"

"Comfort Pack" (455 million) consists of a screen, front center armrest with storage compartment and 12-volt accessory outlet, storage space in front of the rear seat area, a second load 12V and cruise control.

"Technology Pack"

For only 65 euros, the "technology package", add a rain sensor wipers, auto dip mirror rear view, two lights in the region for the feet, running the automatic transmission of light with "Exit house" and " Coming Home "features and automatic control Assist Light main beam (dipping the lights automatically when oncoming traffic is present or the traffic before the car is very close). The "technology package" is coupled to the Parkpilot (540 euros) and the multifunction display "more" (55 euros).

"Pack Light & Sight"

For those not wishing to include the driver's Park, multifunction display "more" or support system to the Light (price: 142 euros) in the "technology package" may order "Light & Pack light" on its own for 175 euros. Consists of the rain sensor, automatic dimming rearview mirror, lights, light of foot and automatic with "Leaving Home" and "Coming Home" feature.

"Mirror pack"

This package complements the "Pack Light and Vision", with a power folding exterior mirrors, mirror on the passenger side enabled the reduction of investment and ambient lighting.

"Winter Pack"

"Winter Pack", which has always offered a range of Volkswagen, and often ordered in the coldest season makes driving easier. This package features automatic heated washer nozzles, headlight washer system, heated front seats and washer low water level indicator. Price: 415 €. When ordered with leather upholstery and xenon headlights, reduce the price of 285 €, who prefers leather and xenon will pay only 55 euro.

16 -, 17 - and 18-inch light alloy wheels

Alloy wheel 16 inches in the program is the "Atlanta" with five double spokes and tires 205. 17-inch format, Volkswagen offers 3 models of tires for Volkswagen Golf Cabrio: "Seattle" (5 double), "Porto" (10 radios) and "Salamanca" (10 radios). 18-inch wheel is the "Charleston" (5 double), based on the rim painted black. All alloy wheels come with 17 inch tires 225.

Individual characteristics

individual feature packages are also available separately. Those who wish to increase the degree of customization can order almost any supplements available in the Golf with hard-top roof. The main options here are the technologies and systems such as Parkpilot (sound and visual display through the audio system to the parking lot) sport suspension (15 mm lower), automatic climate control (Climatronic), multifunction leather trimmed wheel, MEDIA-IN (USB), the system RCD 310 radio / CD radio or CD systems Navigation RNS 315 (navigation function for the RCD 310) and RNS 510 (including a DVD player, 30 GB hard drive, touch screen, the display of traffic signs and SD card slot) and two different preparations of mobile telephony.

The colors and security updates


exterior paints: Golf Cabriolet buyers can choose from nine colors outside of the launch. They start with a flat painting "Pure White" (standard). Subsequently, 7 optional metallic colors: Dark Purple, "" Blue Shark, "" Red Sunset, "Reflex silver", "Tungsten Silver", "United Grey" and "Midnight Blue. "It 'was also a pearl effect paint" Deep Black ", which is of course also a special option.

Seat Cover: 9 seats covers different visual complement to the exterior colors. The standard coating for convertible is "Scout" in "Titanium Black". At the next level, lining seat "Scout / Merlin" option in the colors "Titanium Black" and "Pearl Grey", where the lateral seat supports are in "Merlin" design and surface texture seat "Scout" drugs.

These packs selecting "Design & Style" will automatically receive ergonomic sports seats upholstered in Alcantara / fabric combination ("Catch Up" fabric pattern) and color "Black Titan" tone or "Titan Black / Sunset Red". In this case, the inner surfaces of the lateral supports of the seat are getting the stuff (and "Sunset Red", the seams of the seat are also decorative red).

padding "Vienna" leather leather Cool optional in the "Performance Pack" in the Golf Cabriolet, which includes sport front seats. Leather can be configured in one of four tones "Truffle" "Black," "Ceramic" or "Salsa Red".

sustainable performance is possible

6, direct injection turbo is ideal for a cruise with a convertible. They cover a power range from 77 kW / 105 hp to 155 kW / 210 hp. Also fun is the fuel for fast, efficient transport of high-tech dual-clutch (DSG), which is available with four engines. Gasoline engines (TSI) and two diesel (TDI) will be available for energy-saving BlueMotion technology (regeneration of the battery and start / stop systems.) Illustrating the effectiveness using the new Volkswagen Golf is the fuel Cabriolet 105 hp 1.6 TDI BlueMotion technology: offers a combined fuel consumption of just 4.4 litres/100 km (equal to 117 g / km of CO2).

1.2 TSI of 77 kW / 105 PS

The turbocharged 1.2-liter four-cylinder comply with reductions ITS principle with only 1197 cm3. It offers maximum power with minimum consumption. The Technology package BlueMotion option is available in this version Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet. / KW 77 / 105 hp Cabrio accelerates from zero to 100 km / h in 11.7 seconds. Top speed is 188 km / h. This contrasts with the fuel economy and emission values, which sets standards for open trucks with gasoline engines: 5.9 l/100 (139 g / km CO2) in the standard version, or 5 , 7 l/100 km and 132 g / km of CO2 BlueMotion technology. The 1.2 TSI outputs its maximum power at 5000 rpm. Its maximum torque of 175 Newton meters available between 1,550 and 4,100 rpm. The 1.2 TSI comes with a manual transmission 6-speed standard.

1.4 TSI 90 kW / 122 PS

The next level of power, the new Golf Cabriolet controls operate effectively 1.4 liter TSI with 90 kW / 122 hp (at 5000 rpm). This engine can be combined with the optional 7-speed kaksoiskytkimellä. Both versions follow this fall. four-cylinder engine develops a maximum torque of 200 Nm between 1500 and 4000 rpm. (All fuel economy and performance data Golf Cabriolet 1.4 TSI with 122 PS values ​​projected in this press release.)

With a combined fuel consumption of 6.4 litres/100 km (equal to 149 g / km of CO2), the turbo engine makes the convertible with a manual transmission for fuel efficient cars in its class power. The TSI of 122 hp can reach a top speed of 197 km / h. This includes the classic Golf Cabriolet 0-100 km / h in 10.5 seconds. Driving performance is the same version DSG, combined fuel consumption is even better than the 6.3 liters per 100 km (147 g / km of CO2).

1.4 TSI with 118 kW / 160 hp

The Twincharger of 118 kW / 160 hp (at 5800 rpm), which is reinforced by both the turbocharger and compressor can also be combined with a 7-speed DSG gearbox. It is also fuel efficient than the small 1.4 TSI. fuel consumption combined with a manual transmission is 6.4 L/100 km (including 150 g / km CO2), and it passes by DSG, fuel consumption is reduced to 6.3 l/100 km (148 g / km CO2). TSI develops a maximum torque of 240 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. In both versions of transmission, when the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet with this engine 100 kmh in 8.4 seconds and its top speed is 216 km / h.

2.0 TSI 155 kW / 210 hp

The maximum power, the Golf Cabriolet is to drive 155 kW / 210 PS (at 5300 rpm) TSI. In this case, the engine power increases the front wheels through a 6-speed DSG gearbox is standard. And it does so much fuel, even more power: 100 km to the consumes 7.5 liters (equivalent to 175 g / km CO2), which is directly injected with up to 280 Nm (from 1700 rpm min) high torque engine with 16 valves. However, reaching a top speed of 235 km / h. The Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TSI covers the sprint to 100 km / h in 7.3 seconds. (All information on fuel economy and performance on the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TSI in this press release is expected values, because this version is also in late autumn.)

1.6 TDI 77 kW / 105 hp

TDI input for the program is offered by the pair of 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 77 kW / 105 hp (4400 rpm) and peak of 250 Newton-meters (1500-2500 rpm). Optionally, this version can be equipped with TDI BlueMotion technology (TMO) package (start / stop system and regenerative battery). The combined fuel consumption technology Cabriolet 1.6 TDI BlueMotion Golf is just 4.4 litres/100 km (equal to 117 g / km of CO2). The corresponding values ​​are of 4.8 litres/100 without BMT and 125 g / km of CO2. In each case, the convertible Golf Cabriolet 1.6 TDI is more fuel-efficient Volkswagen ever. Both versions reach 100 km / h speed record at 12.1 seconds and top speed is 188 km / h.

2.0 TDI 103 kW / 140 PS

The most powerful TDI common rail of the Golf Cabriolet is an engine of 1968 cm3 four-cylinder with 103 kW / 140 hp (at 4,200 rpm), which is combined with the TDI BlueMotion technology package as standard. Engine to be introduced this fall will be available with 6-speed DSG option.

From a small 1750 RPM, TDI develops 320 Nm of torque (up to 2500 rpm). These key performance requirements for a four-cylinder engine accelerates the VW Golf Cabriolet is 100 km / h in just 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 207 km / h. For maximum speed DSG version is slightly below 205 km / h. As expected, the combined fuel economy of Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TDI is abnormally low: 4.5 l/100 km with manual transmission, 5.1-liter version of the DSG. CO2 levels are equivalent to 119 g / km and 134 g / km (DSG). (All fuel economy and performance data Golf Cabriolet 2.0 TDI in this press release is projected values, because this version is also in late autumn.)

BlueMotion Technologies in detail

Stop / Start system: the driver approaches a red light, the Volkswagen Golf Cabrio brakes to a stop, the change in neutral and take your foot off the clutch (DSG, simply press the brake pedal). This causes the motor to momentarily cut off. In the multifunction display the text "start (A) Stop." When the light turns green again, the driver presses the clutch (DSG or just press the brake), and the engine starts, the start button (A) Stop the text is cleared, the driver makes a speed and resumes driving. Essentially, the driver had no need for additional operational steps for a conventional car, saving you even up to 0.2 l/100 km in the city by pressing Stop / Start system.



Contrary to vehicles without the system of Stop / Start technology BlueMotion models have an additional battery information form (to obtain the instantaneous state of the battery), the heavy engine starting, the DC / DC converter (ensures voltage stability of power system the vehicle) and durability of a deep cycle battery with fiberglass mat board.

battery regeneration: regeneration can use the energy expended in the direction that the ideal as possible. During inertia and braking phases of Golf Cabriolet - that is, when the driver releases the accelerator pedal or the brakes - the system increases the voltage of the alternator (generator), and this electricity is used to bulk load the vehicle battery. Thanks to the control of the alternator according to the efficiency of the engine and the battery charged for optimum results, the alternator voltage can be reduced whenever it's convenient - such as when accelerating or permanently to maintain the desired speed. The generator, you can even cut altogether. This relieves the load on the engine, reducing fuel consumption. In addition, the battery - always ideally positions - provides vehicle electrical system with enough power during the engine stop (eg traffic lights).

regeneration of the battery requires special software for energy management and editing software for motor control.

6-speed and 7 speed

Outside of the TSI and TDI 77 kW / 105 hp, all other drivers of the new Golf Cabriolet are combined with a dual-clutch transmission (DSG). It is either a 6-speed DSG or 7-speed, depending on engine torque. Both versions are characterized by DSG maximum economy and the changing dynamics, which has never been done on this scale before. In addition to having a different number of forward gears, a second way of DSG systems vary technically their mating types. While the two dry clutches used in the 7-speed DSG gearbox, dual clutch 6-speed DSG runs wet in a bath of oil. Applies to both transmission: even the most experienced professional drivers are not changed in nearly the speed DSG versions. More than any other automatically, have the gearbox with double clutch the potential to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, therefore. Compared to an automatic torque converter, the efficiencies of fuel to be as much as 20 percent, depending on the engine.

History in the first Gulf cabriolet

Here's something that nobody knows: the first "Generation I" prototype VW Golf Cabriolet - the new Golf Cabriolet - had not fixed roll bars is sufficient reason for a brief historical overview and examine more closely the first prototype. 1970. chaise was created Karmann in Osnabrück. Today, plants owned by Volkswagen. So, like all previous generations, the new Golf Cabriolet again be manufactured in Osnabrück.

Leap back in time: Golf has been a fantastic start in 1974 and 1976 has been extended to model the composition of the GTI, which later became a legendary and revolutionary diesel model. That same year, it became clear that the Golf would be a storm the last bastion of the Beetle - like the convertible version. "As soon as it emerged Golf, Volkswagen Karmann has begun negotiations with some countries developing prototype cabriolet. At the same time, Volkswagen has started the research work," says Anton Konrad, who was director of public relations for Volkswagen that time. Cabriolet is based on a compact? Although part of a four-seater cabriolet was as good as dead in Europe since the year 1960? This was not really a dangerous gamble, but it was a logical step, according to Klaus Bischoff, Director of Planning Volkswagen today: "Only the best cars that stand out are the masses of possible candidates for convertibles.

And that's why I Golf - at that time the most expressive Volkswagen - had the power to breathe new life into the segment. "

In December 1976 the first prototype was created Karmann, is designed for this purpose. White Cabriolet was angled bootlid and the sedan, its cornerstone was famous for the C-pillar crease wrote Giorgio Giugiaro, designer of the first Golf. . Unlike the Beetle Cabriolet, the windshield and the triangular window, even the base model here, finally, the convertible golf had to be sold at an affordable price, "says Rüdiger Folten, member of the Volkswagen design team since 1973 without a roof sure, the prototype A1C. - Codename interior of the car - displayed all the key features of the Golf.

Mechanical design of the top of the stack much more solidly a short rear - but the price is justifiable only prototypes. This is due to a large glass rear window is mounted along the bottom, hinges and simply folds inside when the roof is low. back side windows can be lowered completely, and cut a very fine chrome surround their elbow when it is completely up. Yet all these elements are only half of the Member to the function, which then gave the production model of its nickname: "handle" is the "basket of strawberries" is missing.

So how has hoop make its way into the production model later? Konrad Anton gives the answer: ".. At the time, the safety of vehicles on a leading Volkswagen Our development manager at the time, Professor Ernst Fiala, later became known as" Pope security ", he insisted that the bar is installed and partly with an eye toward future legislation in the United States."

Of course, without stabilizer bar prototype has an interesting secret hidden behind the rear trim panels are strong threaded connections for mounting a cage, since the beginning of the tests were conducted in both versions, and end with a modified version an arc prevailed. When the first models emerged from the assembly line in Osnabruck in June 1979, the convertible looked like it was thrown into a single mold: he had a roof design with smooth yet developed fabric layer 5 lined up, a appeal on its surface good back, and offered a lot of fun with a size of 4 outdoor seating at an affordable price. At the same time, has continued to build Karmann Beetle about 6 months. This is because when the news of his imminent demise was a time, there was a significant increase in orders. "The community Beetle even met in a funeral procession in Wolfsburg," says Anton Konrad.

He sent a hot dog stand at the demonstrators at the place of safety facilities, and invited the spokesperson for the Friends test drive a Beetle in the Volkswagen Golf Cabrio. In a nutshell: "I was surprised at how much more advanced technically, was his beloved Beetle.

The rest is history: the Golf Cabriolet has been a success worldwide, with total sales of 388,522. And when he was replaced by the Golf Cabrio III (1993), discussions on the stabilizer bar has adopted a new tone. The fact is that the "handful" had long since gone from being a nuisance to an aesthetic style - and the open bar prototype-roll remains on the drawing board. Until March 1, 2011. It was then presented the new Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet at the Geneva Motor Show - no safety bar automatic deployment modules bearing protection. And if you want, ennobled the prototype of the first prototype VW Golf Cabrio age 35.