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Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016) View gallery (15)
3.6/5· Volkswagen

Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016)

2011 – 2016· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol2 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.2/10

Very good

Is the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet the perfect blend of retro charm and modern electric efficiency? With its iconic design and eco-friendly credentials, this classic convertible is making waves in the budget-conscious commuter market. But does it deliver on performance and practicality?

At a glance

103

hp · Power

653

miles · Range / tank

11.1s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £382/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Stylish and iconic design
  • Fun driving experience with convertible roof
  • Good range of engine options

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited rear passenger space
  • Smaller boot capacity compared to hardtop models
  • Higher running costs for petrol variants

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£382/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £2,300 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance38/10
practicality34/10
running costs32/10
behind the wheel40/10
comfort36/10
equipment35/10
green credentials28/10
handling35/10
reliability40/10
safety37/10

Theo's AI summary

The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016) is a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and versatile convertible. With its blend of retro charm and modern features, it appeals to a wide range of drivers. The Cabriolet offers a comfortable driving experience, practical ownership costs, and a strong reputation for reliability. Whether you're looking for a fun weekend car or a daily driver, the Golf Cabriolet is a solid investment that won't disappoint.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£109/month

Insurance

£103/month

Road Tax

£2933/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£3205/month

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Safe, secure and confidential

With its precise handling, the Golf Cabriolet delivers a confident and stable ride. The chassis is designed to provide excellent grip, allowing drivers to tackle corners with ease. The lightweight construction contributes to its nimble nature, making it feel agile and responsive.

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011-2016) is praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and practicality as a convertible. However, some critics note that rear visibility is limited and the boot space is smaller than rivals. Overall, it offers a good blend of performance and comfort, making it a solid choice for open-top driving.

Read full review
Autocar

The Golf Cabriolet's design is lauded for its elegant lines and high-quality interior. The soft-top roof is easy to operate and provides a refined driving experience. Critics mention that while it looks good, it lacks the sporty edge of some competitors. Overall, it’s a stylish and practical convertible.

Read full review
WhatCar

Reliability ratings for the Golf Cabriolet are generally positive, with few reported issues. Owners appreciate the build quality and dependability, although some have experienced minor electrical faults. Overall, it is considered a reliable choice in the convertible segment.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet are varied, with competitive interest rates available through dealerships and banks. Potential buyers can explore personal loans, hire purchase agreements, or leasing options to find a solution that best fits their budget.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet are competitive within its class. With efficient engine options, owners can expect reasonable fuel consumption, which helps keep overall expenses in check. Regular maintenance is straightforward, and the availability of parts ensures that servicing is both accessible and affordable.

Charging & fuel

For those considering the electric variant, charging costs are generally lower than traditional fuel expenses, especially with the growing availability of charging stations. Home charging options further enhance convenience and cost-effectiveness.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2011

    Launch of the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016)

  2. 2013

    Introduction of updated infotainment system

  3. 2016

    End of production for the Golf Cabriolet

Read full launch story

The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet was designed to offer a stylish and enjoyable open-top driving experience, appealing to those who appreciate both aesthetics and performance. Since its inception, the Golf Cabriolet has evolved from a simple convertible to a modern vehicle that incorporates advanced technology and safety features, while still retaining its classic charm.

Compare with alternatives

The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016) competes well with its rivals by offering a blend of practicality, quality, and driving comfort, though it faces stiff competition from sportier and more premium alternatives.

Ford Focus Hatchback

Reference only

Popular for driving fun and sporty handling.

vs features
The Focus offers a more engaging driving experience with sharper handling compared to the Golf. It typically comes with a range of tech features, but the Golf is often seen as having a more premium cabin quality and better overall fit and finish.
vs price
The Focus is generally priced similarly to the Golf, but can sometimes be slightly less expensive depending on the trim and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Audi A3 Hatchback

Reference only

Premium compact car with a focus on luxury and refinement.

vs features
The A3 offers a more upscale interior and advanced tech features compared to the Golf, but it may lack some of the practicality and space that the Golf provides. Driving dynamics are similar, but the A3 leans more towards comfort.
vs price
The A3 is typically more expensive than the Golf, reflecting its premium positioning and luxury features.
No Motoring.Today review

Peugeot 308 Hatchback

Reference only

Stylish and practical small hatchback with a focus on comfort.

vs features
The 308 is known for its stylish design and comfortable ride, but it may not match the Golf in terms of driving dynamics and interior quality. The tech features are competitive, but the Golf is often seen as more user-friendly.
vs price
The 308 is generally less expensive than the Golf, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
No Motoring.Today review

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Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

1.2 TSI S 2dPetrol Manual · 2011–2016
Power
103 bhp
0–60 mph
11.1 s
Top speed
116 mph
Torque
175 Nm
Economy
54 mpg
Range
653 mi
CO₂
119 g/km
Insurance group
21
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£22,880
1.4 TSI (125bhp) S 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2016
Power
123 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
122 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
51 mpg
Range
617 mi
CO₂
127 g/km
Insurance group
24
Road tax
£160
New price
£23,765
1.4 TSI (125bhp) S 2d DSGPetrol Automatic · 2015–2016
Power
123 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
122 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
52 mpg
Range
629 mi
CO₂
124 g/km
Insurance group
24
Road tax
£160
New price
£25,180
2.0 TDI (110bhp) BlueMotion Tech S 2dDiesel Manual · 2015–2016
Power
108 bhp
0–60 mph
11.3 s
Top speed
117 mph
Torque
250 Nm
Economy
65 mpg
Range
786 mi
CO₂
117 g/km
Insurance group
22
Road tax
£35
New price
£24,770
1.4 TSI (125bhp) SE 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2016
Power
123 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
122 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
51 mpg
Range
617 mi
CO₂
127 g/km
Insurance group
25
Road tax
£160
New price
£24,700
1.4 TSI (125bhp) SE 2d DSGPetrol Automatic · 2015–2016
Power
123 bhp
0–60 mph
9.6 s
Top speed
122 mph
Torque
200 Nm
Economy
52 mpg
Range
629 mi
CO₂
124 g/km
Insurance group
25
Road tax
£160
New price
£26,115

+ 11 more trim variants

FAQs

What is the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet known for?
The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is celebrated for its stylish design, retro charm, and practicality as a convertible, appealing to both eco-conscious drivers and those seeking a fun driving experience.
When was the Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet launched?
The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet was launched in 2011 and continued production until 2016, evolving through various iterations during that time.
What are the running costs of the Golf Cabriolet?
The running costs for the Golf Cabriolet are competitive, particularly due to its electric powertrain, which offers low maintenance expenses and potential savings on fuel.
How does the Golf Cabriolet perform on the road?
The Golf Cabriolet provides a comfortable ride with smooth acceleration, making it suitable for daily commutes, though it may lack the driving excitement of sportier rivals.
What makes the Golf Cabriolet eco-friendly?
The Golf Cabriolet is eco-friendly due to its electric powertrain, which reduces emissions and benefits from government incentives, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers.

Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (2011 - 2016) (2011–2016)

From £382/month