Volkswagen Brazil Presents Custom Virtus Cabriolet for Presidential Use

Brazilian President’s visit to Sao Bernardo do Campo facility inspires new drop-top design.

Volkswagen, a highly esteemed and pragmatic car manufacturer, has pleasantly astonished us by producing a remarkably unconventional vehicle: a four-door, four-person convertible model inspired by a compact sedan.

Volkswagen Brazil unveiled a one-of-a-kind Virtus model (comparable to a mini Jetta) as a special creation for the transportation of Brazilian President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva during his recent visit to the Sao Bernardo do Campo plant. The transformation from a mundane sedan to a thrilling convertible was accomplished by a team of thirty skilled individuals from the Product Development division in a remarkable six-week span. However, while it may be tempting to rush out and purchase this unique vehicle, it is important to note that it is a singular creation reserved solely for the purpose of presidential transport.

Maintaining the same quoted text, the main hurdle faced during the development of the vehicle was time. Antonio Carnielli Jr., Director of Technical Development at VW, stated, “We had to prioritize creating ample rear space for the passengers while also guaranteeing their safety and comfort while using the vehicle. Additionally, we had to ensure that the structural strength and rigidity were up to par, all within a significantly limited timeframe.”

Undoubtedly, the most conspicuous modification is the elimination of the rooftop. However, the process of transforming a car into a convertible goes beyond merely cutting off its roof. In order to make up for the compromised structural strength, Volkswagen Brazil strengthened various components of the Virtus to guarantee an equally secure and pleasurable driving experience. A crossbar was added in place of the B column, not only to enhance the car’s overall structure, but also to provide support for passengers standing inside the vehicle.

Despite being an unconventional move for VW, it is important to remember that this is the same company that introduced the Volkswagen T-Roc Convertible.

Fascinatingly, the team additionally extended the ground surface, resulting in increased distance between the front and back seats, the latter of which underwent redesigning for the undertaking. A distinct fuel reservoir was likewise equipped and repositioned within the floor structure.

“Throughout the vehicle’s construction process, our team’s excitement for witnessing the final masterpiece only continued to increase,” stated Carnielli.

Custom components were specifically designed for the convertible version of the Virtus, and the electronic systems that control the vehicle were altered to suit the car. After the modifications were finished, VW gave the unique vehicle a fresh coat of Biscay Blue paint and installed eye-catching wheels – although we believe the latest Detroit rims featured on the revamped Golf GTI would have been an even more appealing choice. Under the hood, this particular edition is equipped with the 250 TSi engine, a 1.4-liter motor producing 148 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen Brazil has unveiled their fifth custom car specifically made for a visit from a president. Past models, including the Beetle, Polo Sedan, and Fox Convertible, have all been created between 1959 and 2024. The Virtus convertible, however, will not be mass produced and instead be added to the prestigious VW Garage collection for exhibition purposes.

Although uncommon, four-door cabriolets have been around for some time. Toyota has just introduced a convertible edition of its Century SUV, and it appears that Fisker is also jumping on the bandwagon with their sleek Project Ronin prototype.