Volkswagen has unveiled a unique creation in Brazil - the Virtus Cabrio, a one-off convertible version of the mid-size sedan introduced globally in 2022. Developed and built in India for the global market, the Virtus has expanded its reach to countries like Brazil. The special Virtus Cabrio prototype, showcased at Volkswagen's Sao Bernardo do Campo facility in São Paulo, was designed to mark the visit of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
Volkswagen Virtus Cabrio Highlights
The open-roof Virtus Cabrio integrates features from the Highline and Exclusive trims, with its most distinctive feature being the convertible roof. The prototype underwent structural enhancements at key points, received modified suspension components, and now features pillarless, slightly realigned doors due to the removed roof. To create a more spacious interior, the floor was extended, impacting the size of the fuel tank located in the lower part of the floor. The rear seat design was also modified exclusively for this special model.
External components like closing parts for the columns, doors, seats, and fuel tank underwent redevelopment. A crossbar was added in the B column region to provide support and safety for rear occupants when standing. The prototype, painted in Biscay Blue with 18-inch alloy wheels, boasts an all-black interior theme for the seats, dashboard, and door inserts. Volkswagen highlights that this custom Virtus Cabrio was crafted in just six weeks by a team of 30 professionals.
Powertrain and Legacy
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Under the hood, the Virtus Cabrio is powered by a 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It's worth noting that this engine option is not available in the India-spec Virtus, which offers a 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol unit and a 1.5-litre TSI turbo petrol motor. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard, with a 6-speed torque converter for the 1.0-litre unit and a 7-speed DSG transmission for the 1.5-litre unit in India.
This isn't the first time Volkswagen has explored the concept of a one-off convertible prototype. Similar initiatives were taken with models like the Beetle in 1959 and 1993, Polo Sedan in 2003, and Fox in 2005. The Virtus Cabrio will join the VW Garage collection, standing alongside other special, sports, and prototype vehicles, although it will remain exclusive to the collection and won't be available in the market.