Autoblog

New VW Beetle Convertible ad needs no disguise

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Volkswagen

Convertibles make you do funny things. Ask someone if they'd drive a hardtop in near freezing temperatures with all the windows down and they might not even answer, thinking the question so ridiculous. Give that same person a convertible they love and you might just have to ask them to please put the top up even when snow is on the ground.

That guy has to take precautions to enjoy his proclivities, and as this new ad for the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible shows, not everyone understands. Have a watch below, and note that there's just one woman in the minute-long spot, and she's nowhere near the car. Seriously, why didn't VW run this commercial during the Super Bowl?

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New VW Beetle Convertible ad needs no disguise originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volkswagen reveals Beetle GSR, R-Line convertible and two special GTIs

Seyth Miersma — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 01:01:00 EST

Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Volkswagen has chosen to really expand its performance-tuned portfolio at this year's Chicago Auto Show, bringing along a couple of new Beetles destined for model year 2014, as well as a pair of freshened GTI packages that you'll be able to buy almost right away.

The first, and splashiest of the Chicago goodies on the VW stand has got to be the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle GSR. Don't lose your temper, Acura Integra geeks; in this case, GSR stands for "Gelb Schwarzer Renner" or "Yellow Black Racer," and harkens back to a sport-tuned classic Beetle from the 1970s. For the 2014 iteration, the GSR gets a 210-horsepower version of VW's 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder. That engine is enough to push the Beetle to 60 miles per hour in 6.6 seconds, and up to a top speed of 130 mph.

Of course, you'll have long-since noticed the shockingly yellow-and-black livery before you stumble across the Turbo badge on the rear deck. The GSR gets 19-inch alloy wheels, 235-section tires and a tea-tray rear spoiler, but it's the paint and graphics package that will decide if this is your (lemony) cup of tea. Things don't get any subtler inside the car, either, as VW has carried the colorway through to the interior, as well. Only 3,500 Beetle GSRs will be produced, with just more than half of those going to the US - call your dealer today, Wiz Khalifa.

Slightly less racy than the GSR is another Beetle for Chicago; this time a Volkswagen Beetle Convertible with the R-Line package. Almost identical to the standard Beetle Convertible Turbo from a functional standpoint, the 2014 R-Line car gets some unique 19-inch aluminum wheels with lower profile tires, LED DRLs to augment Bi-Xenon headlamps and trim-specific badging. You'll also find R-Line branding sprinkled through the cabin of the car, and a model which is fully kitted out with technology options.

Finally, VW is offering a couple of limited edition GTI models to close out the 2013 model year (yes, we know it's February). There'll be just 3,000 examples of the Volkswagen GTI Driver's Edition produced, all of them offering new 18-inch wheels, a golf ball shifter knob for the six-speed manual and the sunroof and navigation packages from the normal GTI spec sheet. A Wolfsburg Edition car will make a similar offering, but without the navi and sunroof. The Wolfsburg GTI will start from $25,095 in 6MT trim, while the rarer Driver's Edition will run $29,695 with the stick shift.

Check out press releases for all of these vehicles below, and stay tuned as we bring you all of the live action from the Chicago show floor.

Continue reading Volkswagen reveals Beetle GSR, R-Line convertible and two special GTIs

Volkswagen reveals Beetle GSR, R-Line convertible and two special GTIs originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Conan wants to give you a VW Beetle Convertible

Zach Bowman — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:15:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Videos, Volkswagen, Celebrities, Humor

But you're going to have to work for it. As part of the "Occupy Conan" competition, Conan O'Brien is giving us all the chance to recreate some of the show's skits as we see fit. All you have to do is head over to the Conan site and select which clips you want to put your own spin on. Download the clips as well as the full script, nab yourself a camera and some friends and get cracking. Entrants must stick to the script, and your Conan must have orange hair and a tie. Your Andy will also need blonde hair and a tie, just for the sake of consistency.

Why does consistency count? Because once all the entrants are in, Conan will stitch them all together to create a best-of show. The very best clip will win its creator a brand-new Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, though there are other swank prizes to be had, including Team CoCo gear. You can check out the clips below for more information and be sure to head over to the contest site to preview all of the available clips.

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Conan wants to give you a VW Beetle Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI Convertible

Chris Paukert — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Volkswagen, First Drives, Diesel

Top Down In North America's Only Diesel Convertible

Want proof that diesel is finally taking hold in North America? Look no further than this 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. For a while now, it's become easier to understand why more automakers are opting to pair their large-volume models with diesel, but it's only when a given technology or feature starts to infiltrate the industry's smaller segments that we can argue that something has truly taken hold. After an agonizingly slow buildup, we're prepared to say that the high-mileage fuel has finally come of age here, and the evidence is right under this VW's bulbous hood.

Consider this: Diesel has become so viable that it's trickled down to this car, a niche-within-a-niche-within-a-niche model. Niche number one? The Beetle is a retro-styled spinoff of VW's volume hatchback, the Golf. Niche number two? It's a convertible. It isn't until we get to niche number three that we even discuss its oil-burning nature. In fact, if you want to get even more stratified, the Tornado Red tester seen before you has a manual transmission, itself a lamentably narrow sliver of the marketplace. Yes, the outgoing New Beetle was offered here with TDI power, but its convertible variant never was. We've watched for years as Europe has played host to a whole mess of diesel droptops, but we simply can't remember the last time one was offered here.

That Volkswagen is bringing this triple-specific model to its North American dealers not only says a lot about the confidence it has in its TDI powertrains, it also says something about the company's relentless drive for volume, a fever pitch that seemingly cannot abide any white space left unfulfilled.

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2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Decade Editions evoke retro eras

Michael Harley — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Volkswagen, Specialty

Volkswagen has introduced three special edition Beetle Convertible models to celebrate the droptop's launch. The vehicles are designed to evoke three distinct decades in American cultural history: the 1950s, the 1960s and the 1970s, says the automaker.

The '50s Edition (front in the above image) is painted classic black and it arrives with a tan interior and chrome dog dish hubcaps. The '60's Edition (middle in the above image) has Denim Blue paint to remind owners of the period's blue jeans two-tone seats (Volkswagen calls them "groovy") and spoked alloy wheels. Lastly, the '70s Edition (back in the above image) is distinguished by its Toffee Brown paint and chromed wheels, to remind owners of the sophisticated side of the decade.

The new Beetle Convertible goes on sale next month.

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2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Decade Editions evoke retro eras originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 VW Beetle Convertible debuts, priced from $24,495*

Chris Paukert — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertible, Budget, Volkswagen, Design/Style, Diesel

With the second-generation modern-era Beetle, Volkswagen set out to redefine its iconic model, not just with a new shape, but also with a plan to reach a new, more balanced buying demographic. According to the German automaker, the new generation has done just that, with the 2012 model selling to male buyers to the tune of 40 percent - 50 percent with the more powerful Turbo model. The previous-generation New Beetle finished out its long run with just 28-percent male ownership.

VW has just introduced its 2013 Beetle Convertible here at the LA Auto Show, and while it looks to be an excellent new addition to the family, we're not sure how well it will fare at further balancing the model's gender scales. No matter, we say - sales are sales.

In addition to rolling out the new droptop Beetle, VW has released pricing, which starts from $24,495 for the price-leader 2.5-liter five-cylinder automatic model with 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Step up to the 2.0-liter Turbo (200 hp, 207 lb-ft) with a manual transmission and you're looking at $27,795 (a dual-clutch gearbox is optional). Or for a little more cash ($27,895) you can go the iconoclast's way and specify TDI diesel motivation (140 hp, 236 lb-ft). Pricing before a la carte options can reach $31,195 for the 2.0T with optional Fender sound and navigation packages. (*All pricing excludes a $795 destination fee).

For comparison's sake, a standard 2013 Beetle hatchback - "Coupe" in VW parlance - starts at $19,795. However, that model comes standard with a six-speed manual that isn't offered on the 2.5L Convertible - the better comparison starts with the $20,895 2.5 automatic.

Regardless of which flavor Convertible is chosen, buyers will receive well-equipped models that include a standard one-touch power top, pyrotechnic rollover bars, heated V-Tex leatherette seats, alloy wheels, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.

In an unusual move, VW has also chosen to launch new R-Line and Exclusive line model Beetle Convertibles in LA. We say "unusual" because while the racier looking R-Line and more upscale-looking Exclusive might in fact go some way toward courting the stronger male demographic the company is seeking, VW isn't going to sell them here - they're European models. If the 2013 Convertible model takes off when it goes on sale in December, however, VW admits it may take a second look at expanding the Beetle's range even further...

Continue reading 2013 VW Beetle Convertible debuts, priced from $24,495*

2013 VW Beetle Convertible debuts, priced from $24,495* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible makes first official appearance

Zach Bowman — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Volkswagen, Diesel

Volkswagen has pulled back the wraps on the 2013 Beetle Convertible ahead of the vehicle's debut at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. The drophead makes use of the same flattened roof line of the 2012 Beetle Coupe when the folding soft top is in place. Stow the roof, and the mechanism lays flat to increase rear visibility. Volkswagen says the roof can go from fully stowed to in place in just 10 seconds, and engineers built in an automatic rollover support system comprised of two computer-actuated bars behind the rear seat that pop up in just four milliseconds in the event of a collision.

Buyers can choose between three engine options, including a 2.5-liter five-cylinder good for 170 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. A 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder is also available with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque and can be mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Finally, diesel buyers will be happy to hear Volkswagen will offer the 2013 Beetle Convertible with a familiar 2.0 turbo-diesel four-cylinder good for 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. That mill can be bolted to a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG. Check out the full press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible makes first official appearance

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible makes first official appearance originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible confirmed for LA debut

Michael Harley — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 07:57:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Volkswagen

Volkswagen has confirmed rumors that its 2013 Beetle Convertible will drop its top at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show in late November of this year. While we haven't seen images of the new convertible yet, the automaker's all-electric E-Bugster should give us a good indication of how the new model will look - minus the flared fenders, speedster windshield and two-seat passenger configuration, of course.

It has also been reported, though not from VW, that new period-correct trim, with retro paint colors, upholstery and other details, will help capture the nostalgia of the "Fifties," "Sixties" or "Seventies."

The automaker has stated that there will be three engine choices for North American customers (it appears EV fans will have to keep waiting). Under the front hood of standard models will be a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter five-cylinder (earlier this week, we announced that the inline-five is being discontinued in the Jetta). The Beetle Turbo will be fitted with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder running on unleaded and the Beetle TDI receives a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder burning diesel.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible confirmed for LA debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jul 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VW Beetle Convertible coming in early 2013, diesel/manual model promised

Chris Tutor — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Volkswagen, Diesel

How do you make the hot-selling Volkswagen Beetle even hotter? Chop the top!

Car and Driver says sun worshippers will have a convertible option when buying their Beetle next year. The news should be a surprise to no one, but engine choices could be.

VW says all the powertrain options in the coupe will be available in the convertible. That means the 170-horse five-cylinder, the 200-hp turbo four and even the 140-horse, 236 pound-feet of torque TDI diesel. Both transmissions will be on the menu as well: six-speed DSG or a six-speed manual.

Car and Driver speculates that VW will probably show off the convertible Bug at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. When it goes on sale in the spring, it'll be the only diesel convertible available in the States.The way VW's diesels are selling, don't expect the Bug version to sit around on lots very long.

VW Beetle Convertible coming in early 2013, diesel/manual model promised originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volkswagen Beetle Convertible to debut in LA?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Volkswagen, Rumormill

According to Kicking Tires, Volkswagen has confirmed that it will debut two new production vehicles at the upcoming LA Auto Show. One of those is very likely to be the highly anticipated convertible version of VW's latest Beetle - LA is as fitting a place to unveil such a sun-worshiping machine as any.

The second production car is much more difficult to put a finger on. It's possible that Volkswagen will pull the covers off a new three-row crossover for the American market, as has been speculated, but Kicking Tires opines it's more likely a new variant of an existing model. Either way, we'll be on hand in LA to find out and bring you the news live.

Volkswagen Beetle Convertible to debut in LA? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid headed for Detroit, coupe hopes dead

Autoblog Staff — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, New York Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Hybrid, Sedan, Volkswagen

Even though public days for the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show have only just begun, details on the upcoming 2012 Detroit Auto Show are already starting to emerge. Volkswagen sources have divulged to Car and Driver that the automaker will unveils its Jetta Hybrid in the Motor City and sell it to U.S. buyers by the end of 2012.

Reports claim the Jetta Hybrid will feature a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery pack.

Rather than aspire to Prius-like numbers of 51 miles per gallon city and 48 mpg highway, VW is more conservatively shooting to meet the 44/44/44 (that's city/highway/combined) marks set by the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid. VW hopes that the addition of a gas-electric model will further fortify the Jetta's bid for alt-fuel efficiency excellence, a movement currently spearheaded by the popular TDI diesel model.

In related news, C/D says its sources also confirm that there will be no Jetta Coupe model offered - this, despite a warm reception for the NCC concept shown in 2010. Additionally, C/D sources say that a convertible version of the recently launched Beetle will show up at the 2012 New York Auto Show in April.

Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid headed for Detroit, coupe hopes dead originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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