Volkswagen Golf GTI cabriolet

For Europe only: VW's GTI Cabrio is revealed ahead of its Geneva Motor Show debut. We'll go with the bad news on this one first. Volkswagen will not be bringing their just revealed Golf GTI Cabriolet to North America not anytime soon (meaning likely never).The GTI Cabriolet will be going on sale this fall throughout Europe. That's the good news for residents of that continent. So what about those North Americans who'd love to have one? Volkswagen feels that a choice between the Eos and the upcoming Beetle Cabriolet is good enough.All that aside, the new GTI Cabrio, according to VW, is the most powerful production Golf Cabrio ever. Set to make its official live debut next week at Geneva, the GTI Cabrio is powered by the same 211hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 206lb-ft of torque as the standard hatch. It's mated to either a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed dual-clutch transmission. It can go from 0 to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds (6.9 for the hatch) and has a top speed of 147 mph.The Cabrio features a fully insulated automatic fabric roof which can be folded away in only 9.5 seconds while traveling at speeds up to 18 mph.There are also standard 17-inch 'Monza' alloys and brushed aluminum stainless steel pedals. The rest of the interior is equipped with a unique steering wheel, contrasting red stitching on the handbrake and gear lever gaiter, and there's also that classic tartan cloth upholstery with leather remaining optional. Also like the GTI hatch, the Cabrio is set apart from the standard model by its honeycomb radiator grille with red edging and a GTI badge. The front bumper also incorporates a deep honeycomb air dam and distinctive fog lights. Additionally, there are side sill extensions that help give it a wide stance as well as a bespoke rear diffuser and chrome tailpipes European buyers will find the new Golf GTI Cabriolet in showrooms in the coming months. North Americans, sadly, won't. Hey, there's always the Eos.