Razão Automóvel decided to take advantage of the «Verono» to test the more airy version of the new Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio.
The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible tested was the most modest of the range, a 1.2 TSi 4-cylinder with 105 hp of power and manual gearbox. At first glance, the 1,197 cm3 of two valves per cylinder may seem “short” to equip this Beetle Convertible, but they aren't. Those interested in this entry-level version are looking for pleasant driving, they are not pure performances.
Those looking for a little more "excitement" can opt for the 160 and 200 hp petrol versions. The 1.2 Tsi of 105hp is a crop for other palates, where expressions like “walking the mill”, “hair in the wind” or “dolce far niente” are queens.
And so – taking advantage of the climate condescension of the month of October – we took the top down and, without any great hurry, we pointed the new Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio towards the magnificent landscapes of the Portuguese coast.
Along the way, still deep in the “urban jungle”, highlights for the small 1.2 TSI, which is easy enough to face the city and for the excellent soundproofing of the hood that isolates us from the outside, almost like a normal version. The engine responds well from low revs and has a very discreet “sing”. On the highway, the 105hp version of the TSI engine reveals some limitations, but not enough to be worth noting.
Even because, truth be told, the aura that the Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio transmits to us is one of calm and relaxation. Not even the red paintwork of the tested unit managed to break this «zen» state . And if the abstraction is total on board, the same cannot be said of the people who see us. The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is the center of attention wherever it goes causing a little frenzy wherever it goes. And I confess… it causes us some vanity. Volkswagen found in this new Beetle Convertible a “win-win” formula, women like the Beetle and men inside the Beetle draw attention. And more! No one can resist the words that were heard the most during this rehearsal: are you going for a walk? The answer was always yes.
Compared to the previous generation, we can see sportier and more modern lines in this new generation. In the cabin, you can clearly see the concern that there was to redesign the space for the better. Here, there was also precious help from the optimized shape of the pillars, which allows for a wider interior and more space for the occupants. The rear space was perhaps what benefited most from these changes. It is now possible for adults to travel in the back seat in comfort, something that was almost impossible to happen in the previous generation.
Also in the cabin, the plastics of the dashboard, steering wheel and doors are highlighted, which are painted in the same color as the bodywork, thus giving it a “cooler” look. What could not be missing from this Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio was the on-board computer and the possibility of installing a Fender sound system to make the most of these last days of «Verono».
For just over 26 thousand euros we can say that the Volkswagen Beetle Cabrio is the perfect car for those who like to live life with a smile on their face. This car makes anyone in a good mood, especially if the sky is clear and the sun is calling for us. It only remains for me to say that the hood can be opened or closed in about 15 seconds and up to 50 km/h. Note also for the windbreak that makes an incredible difference when placed – ladies say so…
For those who are still thinking about the word «Verono», know that it is the combination of summer and autumn. Now if you allow us, sorry but let's take one more ride...
Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
| MOTOR | 4 cylinders |
| CYLINDRAGE | 1197 cc |
| STREAMING | Manual, 6 Speed |
| TRACTION | Forward |
| WEIGHT | 1388 kg. |
| POWER | 105 hp / 5000 rpm |
| BINARY | 175 NM / 1550 rpm |
| 0-100 KM/H | 11.7 sec. |
| SPEED MAXIMUM | 178 km/h |
| CONSUMPTION | 6.1 lt./100 km |
| PRICE | €26,927 |