It seems like only yesterday we were reporting on Vauxhall’s upcoming Astra Convertible. Now we have proof that the next Astra Convertible will ditch the folding hardtop of the previous model and return to a folding fabric roof.
Vauxhall Astra Convertible: the lowdown
Vauxhall have decided to return to a soft-top convertible for the current Astra range. Folding hardtop convertibles may offer a compelling advantage in security and all-weather refinement versus a fabric roof. But the cost, complexity and packaging constraints forced on the coupe-cabriolet model make a conventional soft-top a better solution for volume segment vehicles like the Astra.
The vehicle caught testing is an early engineering prototype with a proof-of-concept roof and what appears to be the longer doors from the new Astra GTC coupe. As shown in Vauxhall’s teaser image, the production Astra Convertible will have frameless side windows and space for four within the interior.
The boot of the prototype is heavily disguised and gives few clues of the production Astra Convertible’s styling. Vauxhall’s Astra range lacks a saloon but the Astra-based Buick Excelle/Verano may give a hint of how a three-box Astra convertible could look.
The Astra Convertible is expected to appear in 2012, going on sale during the 2013 model year.
>>Do you prefer your convertible tops hard or soft? Share your thoughts on the upcoming Astra Convertible in our comments section below:
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