A convertible version of the Golf GTI is to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show; the most powerful soft-top Golf ever.

In many ways the Golf GTI Cabriolet is just like its hard-top sibling, with a honeycomb grille design and red detailing at the front. The 17-inch wheels and the tartan upholstery are the same too.

Likewise the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 207bhp and 208lb.ft of torque. The only major difference in fact is the folding canvas roof, which can be folded down in just 9.5 seconds, at speeds of up to 18mph.

Full details haven't been released but the GTI Cabriolet is expected to be significantly heavier than the hatchback, as reflected by a 7.3-second 0-62mph time, 0.4 seconds slower than the hatch's claimed 6.9-second sprint.

A five-star Euro NCAP rating continues in this version of the iconic Golf, with a 96% score in adult occupant protection. Automatic rollover protection joins front and side head/thorax airbags and a driver's knee airbag.

A precise on-sale date has yet to be set, but the GTI Cabriolet will arrive in the UK in the second half of this year.