2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible gets the R-Line treatment

Thu, 07 Feb 2013

Volkswagen just launched the topless Beetle Convertible at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, but we're already seeing the next step forward in the topless Bug range with this, the R-Line. We'll admit, this treatment falls under the "all show and no go" category, but it's still a pretty potent little cutie.

The R-Line starts with a standard Beetle Turbo Convertible but adds unique 19-inch aluminum wheels on lower-profile tires, LED daytime running lamps and Xenon headlamps. Naturally, there are R-Line badges aplenty both on the interior and exterior, and we must say, the whole package looks pretty darn snazzy.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but when it goes on sale later this year, the hotter convertible will join Volkswagen's growing R-Line portfolio that now includes the CC, Beetle hatch, Tiguan and Touareg.

VOLKSWAGEN INTRODUCES PERFORMANCE INSPIRED R-LINE® TRIM ON BEETLE CONVERTIBLE

- R-Line specification offers another level of sportiness to the all-new Beetle Convertible lineup

- Joins the CC, Tiguan, Touareg, and the Beetle coupe as the fifth car in the R-Line family

Herndon, VA / Chicago, - Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show that it will offer the R-Line trim on another model for the U.S. market. Joining the CC R-Line, Beetle R-Line coupe, and the recently introduced Tiguan R-Line and Touareg R-Line, the Beetle Convertible R-Line will be added to the Volkswagen line-up for model year 2014.

Augmenting the Beetle Convertible Turbo's impressive list of standard equipment, the Beetle Convertible R-Line adds performance-inspired exterior and interior treatments. On the outside, the R-Line features unique 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels on lower-profile all-season tires. Paired with the Beetle Turbo's sport-tuned suspension, the combination gives more dynamic driving characteristics. Additional enhancements include an R-Line badge on the front grille and Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs.

Inside, the Beetle Convertible R-Line features "metallic-finish" dash and door trim; a sporty flat-bottom R-Line multi-function leather steering wheel; stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates; aluminum sport pedals; and leather sport seating surfaces. Other interior appointments include the RNS 315 navigation system; Keyless access with push-button start; and the award-winning Fender® Premium Audio System, which delivers rich sound via a 10-channel, 400 watt amplifier with eight speakers and a rear subwoofer. Beetle Convertible R-Line pricing will be announced closer to launch later this year.

By Steven J. Ewing