So when the top is down, is it cold this time of year? If you ask me, yes. However, I have absolutely no tolerance for frigid weather. In comparison to the Sebring, there is not nearly as much wind blowing through the interior. But wind still gets through. For me, I overcame my chilliness by cranking the front leather bucket heated seats to their max position (a feature of the Leather and Cold Weather Package), improved upon by also turning up the heat to full blast. Then, I wasn't as cold.
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| Despite the lack of a standard CD player, and the hassles I experienced putting the top up and down, the New Beetle Convertible is an awesome ride. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press) |
The folded roof also impedes rearward visibility, at least as badly as when the top was up. I found backing up was difficult due to exceptionally wide "C-Pillars," or when the top was down, the top sitting well above the trunk. On the other hand, when the top was down my blind spots were very easy to see.
Despite the lack of a standard CD player, and the hassles I experienced putting the top up and down, the New Beetle Convertible is an awesome ride. It's hip, it's cool, and when I went to the mall all the ladies coveted it! It's amazing what a high fashion statement will do to wash away frustrations.
Specifications (GLX):
- Price Range (MSRP): $35,950- $38,185 (base GLS starts at $29,250)
- Body Type: 2-door convertible
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine: 150 hp, 162 lb-ft of torque, 1.8-L, 20-valve, turbocharged and intercooled I-4
- Transmission: 5 speed manual (optional 6-speed automatic with manual mode)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/ disc with ABS
- Curb Weight: 1,438 kg (3,170 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 4
- Cargo Volume: 142 L (5.0 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 9.5 / 7.1 L/100 km,
- Warranty (mo/km): 48 / 80,000 comprehensive - 60 / 100,000 powertrain
- Competitors: Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Toyota Solara Convertible, Mazda Miata, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, Ford Mustang Convertible
- Web site: www.vw.ca
