Volkswagen not bringing Roadster concept to LA, Detroit debut scheduled

As we look forward to the 2008 LA Auto Show Press Days next week, we are started to get a little disappointed. GM has already confirmed that it will no longer show the Cadillac CTS Coupe or the 2010 Buick LaCrosse in LA on Nov. 19th.

Volkswagen today announced that it will move the concept unveiling of its new mid-engine roadster from LA to the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January next year. Why? According to a Volkswagen spokesman that spoke with Automotive News Europe, the company expects to attract more interest through a Detroit debut.

The production version of the 2-seat roadster concept will arrive some time in 2011. Design is expected to be influenced by the new 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco. Power is rumored to come from a 1.4L twin-turbo TSI engine that will produce 170-hp and a 1.6L TDI diesel that will make 125-hp. Both engines will be mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.