The Volkswagen Golf VI Cabriolet 1.2 TSI BMT (105 hp) was a front-wheel-drive, two-door convertible produced between 2011 and 2015. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the Golf VI Cabriolet range, it aimed to provide accessible open-top motoring with a focus on fuel efficiency. This variant utilized Volkswagen’s 1.2-liter turbocharged direct-injection engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, making it a popular choice in European markets where smaller displacement engines were favored due to tax incentives and fuel costs. It represented the sixth generation of the Golf Cabriolet, continuing a lineage dating back to the original Golf Cabriolet of the 1970s, but built on the Golf VI platform (1HX0/A3).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VI Cabriolet |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI BMT (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 73.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1550-4100 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 1550-4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBZB |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1421 kg (3132.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 429 kg (945.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 250 l (8.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4246 mm (167.17 in.) |
| Width | 1782 mm (70.16 in.) |
| Height | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1508 mm (59.37 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Golf VI Cabriolet 1.2 TSI BMT was the CBZB engine code, a 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler, technologies designed to enhance both power and fuel economy. The “BMT” designation stands for “BlueMotion Technology,” indicating the inclusion of fuel-saving features like start-stop functionality and regenerative braking. The engine utilized a timing chain rather than a belt, contributing to lower maintenance costs over the long term. The six-speed manual transmission was chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement, offering precise gear changes. The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging allowed for a broad torque curve, providing usable power across a wide range of engine speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 105 hp 1.2 TSI engine, coupled with the six-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 11.1 seconds, and top speed was around 116 mph. The engine felt responsive at lower RPMs thanks to the turbocharger, making it suitable for everyday driving. However, when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines, the engine could feel strained. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 TSI or 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.2 TSI offered a more economical driving experience but lacked the same level of outright performance. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control and contributed to the car’s relatively nimble handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 TSI BMT Cabriolet typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with CD player, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, parking sensors, and a wind deflector to reduce turbulence in the cabin when the roof was down. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, this engine was offered in the base or mid-range trim, focusing on value and efficiency.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf VI Cabriolet utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were typically solid discs. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing precise and responsive control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was reinforced compared to the standard Golf hatchback to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring structural rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf VI Cabriolet 1.2 TSI BMT was generally well-received by automotive critics as an affordable and fuel-efficient open-top option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, decent handling, and relatively low running costs. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power to provide a truly sporty driving experience. Compared to the 1.4 TSI variant, the 1.2 TSI offered better fuel economy but less performance. Against diesel alternatives like the 1.6 TDI, the 1.2 TSI provided a smoother and quieter driving experience, but the diesel offered superior fuel economy and torque.
Legacy
The 1.2 TSI engine proved to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors over the long term. The CBZB engine code is known for its relatively straightforward maintenance. Today, the Golf VI Cabriolet 1.2 TSI BMT represents an affordable entry point into classic convertible ownership. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and economical open-top car. The used car market values these models based on condition, mileage, and service history, with well-maintained examples commanding a premium.
