Even if VW’s “Dieselgate” scandal is still smoldering, especially stateside, the German car manufacturer is apparently looking forward to expand its US line-up

Following the gruesome scandal regarding the infamous software code, which reduced the effectiveness of emissions control tests on some diesel vehicles, Volkswagen announced its immense budget-cuts plans and its willingness to introduce an all-new electric Phaeton – as the company’s ambassador of its new era.

But it also seems that the German car manufacturer is trying to bring back its cheerfulness to the North American market, as Car and Driver reports that the next generation Golf Cabriolet will be sold in the U.S alongside the Beetle convertible. Together, the two models will apparently fill in the gap that will be left by the Eos after it ceases production in a few months.

The future Golf Cabrio will be positioned below the Eos and will closely mirror the current-gen’s layout and design. The automobile will also be based on the VW Group’s MQB architecture and it will include a wide array of powertrain options – although the diesel engines will probably won’t be available. You know, because of the scandal and all.

The last Golf Cabrio available stateside was the MK4, and that happened 13 years ago, in 2002. Apparently, VW has pondered – for several years – whether or not to introduce a two-door convertible based on the Passat, but according to the magazine, the project was cancelled. Maybe the budget cuts had something to do with it.

PHOTO GALLERY