2020 Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet Preview – New Crossover Convertible Is On Our Wish List

By Steve & Tamami Laser

It may be cold and rainy outside, yet Volkswagen has started building the first production models of its new T-Roc Cabriolet ahead of a springtime launch in Europe.

The convertible version of VW’s popular T-Roc crossover is rolling off the line at the Osnabrück plant, where Beetle, Karmann Ghia, and Golf cabriolets were built. While Americans fell in love with those models, it looks like the T-Roc is not coming stateside (it’s on our wish list).

Volkswagen offers an array of models that could do well in the U.S. yet remain out of reach. The list includes the four-door T-Roc compact crossover, which is smaller than Tiguan, plus an even smaller subcompact model called T-Cross.

While transforming a crossover into a convertible is not an easy job, VW has kept the spirit of T-Roc intact with styling that looks good whether the top is up or down. The fully automatic top opens in just nine seconds and can be opened or closed while the car is in motion at speeds up to 30 km/h (about 18.6 mph).

T-Roc Cabrio powertrains include a choice of two gas engines; a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder with a 6-speed manual gearbox, and a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder with manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on Style and R-Line models. Those seeking AWD have to stick with the four-door T-Roc for now.

T-Roc Cabrio features sporty bucket seats up front and cozy seating for two in the rear (with unlimited headroom). Volkswagen says it has engineered the cabrio with “safety down to the last detail” including structural modifications, an integrated rollover protection system, and reinforced windshield.

Equipped with an optional next-generation infotainment system, T-Roc Cabrio is “permanently online” allowing it to offer new services and functions. Information is displayed on an 8-inch screen and optional Active Info Display, an 11.7-inch unit that VW calls the Digital Cockpit.


Note: Features, specifications and launch timing for European models is subject to change without notice

News source and photos courtesy Volkswagen UK

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