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Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (photos)

Volkswagen brings back its convertible Golf model at the 2011 Geneva auto show, expanding its open-top lineup beyond the Eos and Beetle. The new Cabriolet has an attractive roofline for its fully automated top.

Wayne Cunningham

March 2, 2011 4:58 a.m. PT

Wayne Cunningham

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In recent years, Volkswagen's lineup of convertibles had narrowed down to two, the Eos and Beetle. In the company's efforts to increase its appeal, it is bringing an open-top Golf back to the market.

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The Golf Cabriolet comes in a four-seat configuration, with two doors for cabin access. Volkswagen says the automatic top goes up in 9.5 seconds.

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Although Volkswagen promises a variety of engines for the Golf Cabriolet, expect the U.S. version to be offered with a 2.5-liter gas engine and a 2-liter TDI diesel, as in the hard-top Golf.

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The profile of the soft top when up features a slanted rear window and a metal plane extending beyond the roof, a very different look than the hatchback Golf.

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Volkswagen boasts that the trunk is uncompromised by the convertible roof, but the small rear hatch opening limits access.

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The cabin tech package looks like the same equipment included with the new Jetta: a flash-based navigation system, stereo with iPod support, and a Bluetooth phone system.

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