Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible

Press Release

4. Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible ??????????????????????????????????????? Engines/transmission Unique in its segment: the six-speed automatic

• Europe will also have a New Beetle Convertible with a 100 HP TDI
• Planned for the USA: two gasoline engines with 115 HP and 150 HP

The New Beetle Convertible will be available in the USA in two engine versions. They deliver 85 kW/115 HP and 110 kW/150 HP. In Europe, the new convertible approaches the starting grid with a choice of four engines ??????????????????????????????????????? three gasoline and one TDI. A four-cylinder gas engine with 55 kW/75 HP marks the European entrance. The next power level employs a 1.6 liter gas engine that develops 75 kW/102 HP. The most powerful European gas engine is a 2.0 liter four-cylinder with 85 kW/115 HP. The four-cylinder turbo diesel for the New Beetle Convertible is as economical as it is torquey. The 1.9 liter engine with pump-nozzle direct injection delivers 74 kW/100 HP. All engines comply with the strict EU 4 exhaust emissions standards. Basically all engines are shifted using a manual five-speed transmission. As an innovative novelty in the convertible segment, Volkswagen is also offering an optional new six-speed automatic (with Tiptronic function) for the 2.0 liter gas engine (and for the 110 kW version offered in North America). The 2.0 liter version and the new six-speed transmission in detail: The 2.0 liter four-cylinder The four-cylinder with the largest engine capacity (1,984 cm3 or 121 in3) in the New Beetle Convertible has a cross-flow cylinder head manufactured from aluminum alloy. The maximum power of the well-appointed engine (85 kW/115 HP) is at 5,400 RPM; the maximum torque (170 Nm or 125 ft./lbs.) starts at 3,200 RPM. In Germany, the 2.0 liter power pack is classified in emissions category EU 4 and consequently is supported by a tax exemption; in the USA the New Beetle Convertible 2.0 is classed as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). The four-cylinder accelerates the convertible with manual transmission to 80 km/h (50 mph) in 7.9 seconds and to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.7 seconds. The Volkswagen has a top speed of 184 km/h (114 mph) and has average fuel economy figures of 8.8 liters/100 km (32 mpg). The six-speed automatic transmission The new six-speed automatic transmission on the New Beetle Convertible represents a special innovation. Volkswagen is currently the only manufacturer in the world to offer a front transverse-mounted six-speed automatic in this segment. The shift programs automatically adapt to the driving conditions (such as when climbing hills or towing a trailer). The transmission can also be shifted manually using a Tiptronic function (+/-). The special sporty shifting program ???????????????????????????????????S???????????????????????????????? provides even greater agility. Compared to the automatic transmission used until now in the New Beetle, the acoustic characteristics, the fuel consumption and the acceleration values are improved because of the large range of usable gear ratios. Structurally, the new six-speed automatic transmission is designated as a so-called Ravigneaux planetary gear train in combination with a single planetary gear train and five electohydraulically controlled friction gearshift components. A hydrodynamic torque converter with freely shifting lockup clutch is used as the starting element to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. A separate electronic control unit manages the transmission function and communication with engine and vehicle. The maximum torque capacity of the automatic transmission amounts to more than 300 Nm or 220 ft./lbs. To make sure that the transmission is low maintenance, it is filled with oil that does not have to be changed (life-time fill). 5. Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible ??????????????????????????????????????? Chassis Reinforced steering column connection eliminates vibrations

• Proven New Beetle chassis also convincing in convertible
• With standard electronic stability program in Germany

The fully developed and well-appointed chassis of the New Beetle did not have to be changed for use in the convertible. In the front a spring strut axle is guided on triangular control arms. In the back, a torsion beam axle in track-correcting suspension with coil springs and separate absorbers provides large safety reserves and maximum comfort. Furthermore, the side tilt when curves are taken quickly is reduced both front and back by stabilizers. All the convertibles also have power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering featuring a steering column with adjustable rake and reach. For its use in the New Beetle Convertible, the steering column connection was further stiffened in order to eliminate the steering wheel vibrations that are more likely to arise in an open car. The brake system with front (internally ventilated) and rear disk brakes guarantees superior deceleration values. On the electronics side, an anti-block system (ABS) and the electronic stability program ESP (part of the standard equipment in Germany) are included in the brake system. All data and features contained in this press information are valid for the model program offered in North America or Germany. This information may differ in other countries. Information subject to change. We are not responsible for any errors in the data.