VW brings GTI limited editions and Beetle R-Line convertible to Chicago Auto Show

 The 2013 Volkswagen GTI Driver's Edition was revealed at the Chicago Auto Show with the Beetle Turbo convertible R-Line.

About the Chicago Auto Show

Volkswagen made its sporting intentions known on Thursday at the Chicago Auto Show with the reveal of two limited-edition GTI models and the new Beetle convertible R-Line. The GTI Wolfsburg Edition and the Driver's Edition mark the end of the current generation, while the Beetle will join the CC, Tiguan and Touareg with the appearance upgrade.

A redesigned GTI is expected to arrive next year. Before that happens we get two limited-edition models, which are offered only with four doors and only in three colors -- white, gray and black.

The Wolfsburg Edition goes on sale this quarter and gets the GTI's standard options plus 18-inch Laguna wheels, a golf-ball shifter and red-stitched carpeted floor mats. A six-speed manual is standard on the Wolfsburg, which starts at $25,095. Adding VW's dual-clutch transmission adds $1,100 to the sticker price. VW will only produce 2,000 Wolfsburg Editions.

The GTI Driver's Edition will hit dealerships this summer. It combines the Sunroof and Navigation packages with 18-inch Laguna wheels and the golf-ball shifter. Red-stitched mats are also included, along with partial leather seat covers. The Driver's Edition will cost $29,695 with a six-speed manual transmission. Only 3,000 will be sold in the United States.

Both cars come with a certificate of authenticity and a special package of GTI gear, including a hat, keychain and parking sign.

The 2014 Beetle Turbo convertible R-Line will get exclusive 19-inch wheels with low-profile all-season tires. Additional upgrades include R-Line badges and bixenon headlights.

Inside, the R-Line has a metallic-finish dashboard and doors, a flat-bottomed, multifunction steering wheel, sport pedals and leather seats. Keyless access is also included, as well as navigation, and premium audio with an amplifier and subwoofer.

Pricing will be announced later this year.

The 2014 Beetle Turbo convertible R-Line was revealed at the Chicago Auto Show alongside two versions of the GTI.

The Chicago Auto Show is held every February at McCormick Place and bills itself as "The Nation's Largest." Pickup trucks traditionally have had a big showing in Chicago, as have green and small cars. This year marks the 105th Chicago Auto Show; press days are Feb. 7-8 while public days are Feb. 9-18.

Jake Lingeman - Jake Lingeman is Associate Editor at Autoweek, reporting on cars, car tech and the world at large. See more by this author»

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