In a surprising revelation, Volkswagen has taken the wraps off a specially developed Virtus convertible in Brazil. The one-of-a-kind prototype made its debut at the Volkswagen factory in Sao Bernardo do Campo (SP) during the visit of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to the facility.
Based on Brazilian-Spec Virtus
The Virtus convertible is based on the Brazilian-spec Virtus sedan showcasing Volkswagen's commitment to creating unique and customized projects for special occasions.
1.4-Litre TSI Petrol Power
Powering this special project is a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine, offering a blend of performance and efficiency. It's important to note that this engine variant is not available on the Virtus sold in India.
Structural Enhancements
This is not merely a convertible version of the standard sedan. The Virtus Cabriolet underwent structural enhancements at critical points to compensate for the removal of the roof. Additional strengthening rods connect the left and right B-pillars, ensuring stability.
Modified Suspension and Doors
The convertible version features modified suspension components, providing an optimized driving experience. Furthermore, the doors have been slightly realigned and are now pillarless, contributing to the open-air feel of a convertible.
Lengthened Floor for Enhanced Comfort
To enhance passenger comfort, the floor has been slightly lengthened, resulting in increased legroom. This modification required adjustments to the fuel tank and rear seats to accommodate the changes effectively.
Custom Design and Interior
Painted in a captivating Biscay Blue, the Virtus convertible boasts 18-inch wheels with a darkened finish, adding a touch of sophistication. The interior is an all-black affair, creating a sleek and stylish ambiance.
Rapid Development by Skilled Team
Volkswagen Brazil highlights that the custom Virtus convertible prototype was developed in just six weeks by a dedicated team of 30 professionals. This rapid turnaround showcases the brand's agility and expertise in executing special projects.
Presidential Transport
The specially designed Virtus convertible served a dual purpose as it was used to transport President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva around the plant's facilities during his visit.
Volkswagen's Tradition of Special Projects
The Volkswagen Group has a tradition of creating unique, one-off models for special projects. In India, the brand previously engaged in a special project based on the Rapid convertible, conceptualized as a student project in 2023.
The Virtus convertible stands as a testament to Volkswagen's innovation and ability to craft distinctive automotive solutions, catering to special occasions and the preferences of discerning individuals.