Volkswagen Blows the Top off the New Golf GTI Cabriolet in Geneva [Video]

Unless Volkswagen has another production surprise under its sleeves (think Golf R Cabriolet), then the new open-top Golf GTI that made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show could very well be the last hurray in the Mk6 series before the Germans reveal the seventh generation model at the Paris Motor Show this fall.

The first ever GTI Cabriolet in the history of the Golf features the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as its famous hatchback brethren producing 210PS (207hp) and a peak torque of 280Nm (206 lb-ft).

A standard six-speed manual or an optional double-clutch DSG transmission handles the delivery of power to the front axle through VW’s XDS transverse differential lock. Regardless of the transmission, the Golf GTI Cabriolet accelerates to 100km/h (62mph) within 7.3 seconds.

With the top in its place, the GTI version of the Cabriolet reaches a top speed of 237km/h (147mph) with the manual and 235km/h (146mph) with the DSG. Average fuel consumption stands at 7.6lt/100 km (30.9 mpg US) with to CO2 emissions of 177 g/km (DSG: 7.7 lt/100 km and 180 g/km CO2).

A sportier suspension setup along with 17-inch wheels wrapped around in 225/45 tires, and all the bespoke styling cues found on the hatch round out the upgrades.

Sales of the new Golf GTI Cabriolet are expected to begin this summer with more detailed information to be released closer to launch.

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