VW Mid-Engined Roadster Skipping LA For Detroit Auto Show Unveil [Detroit Auto Show]

The debut of the mid-engined Volkswagen Roadster — with design based on the above shot of the Volkswagen Concept R — was reportedly planned for the LA Auto Show later this month. Automotive News is reporting it's skipping out on fun in sunny So-Cal and it's now heading straight for the Detroit Auto Show early next year. A spokesman for VW claims it's to attract more attention to the debut of the vehicle, which is likely to see production as early as 2011. This makes perfect sense because when we think of convertibles, we think Detroit in the middle of winter. A brief rundown of what we think we know about the Roadster below the jump.

Following on the heels of the Volkswagen Concept R, the mid-engined Roadster should be set to compete with cars like the Lotus Elise and Porsche Boxster but at a lower cost. The appearance is said to be borrowed from the Scirocco while engine choices will likely include a small diesel option and a turbocharged, direct-injection gas engine. All engines should be mated to a seven-speed DSG gearbox.

[Automotive News Europe via 4WheelsNews]