However, Volkswagen still has one more variant of its outgoing MkVI Golf to launch, and that’s the Golf R Cabriolet, which as its name suggest is simply the convertible version of the MkVI Golf R hatch.
The new model will be making its world debut next month at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, and will go on sale in markets where the standard Golf Cabrio (on which it’s based) is sold.
That means it won’t be coming to the U.S., though we’d bet only a few will miss it--the regular Golf R offers all the performance of the new Golf R Cabrio but is lighter and more practical.
Power for the Golf R Cabrio comes from Volkswagen’s familiar turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter engine, which is rated at 256 horsepower and 243 pound-feet. This is the same engine found in the Golf GTI but with boost pressure turned up to a heady 17 psi.
This engine is matched to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which is standard on the Golf R Cabrio. All-wheel drive also comes standard, helping the car make the most of its power.
With the pedal floored, 60 mph comes up after 6.4 seconds and the engine finally quits when you’ve reached a governed top speed of 155 mph.
Key features of the Golf R Cabrio’s exterior include an aggressive front bumper, a unique 18-inch wheel pattern (also available in 19 inches), a soft-top roof and discrete R badging. There are also side sills, a blacked-out diffuser and chrome exhausts tips.
Inside, buyers will find leather trim on the seats, steering wheel and handbrake grip, R logos embossed on the headrests, aluminum door sills and aluminum pedals.
European sales of the new Volkswagen Golf R Cabrio commence this spring.
