Up until now, Opel and Vauxhall engineers had been seen working on unfinished, test mules of the upcoming Astra-based convertible model with framed doors and other non-production parts.
Now, our spies were finally able to spot a camouflaged prototype of the open-top model wearing its production body including the electrically operated ragtop.
You may have noticed that we’re constantly using the term ‘Astra-based’, the reason being that while the new Opel model is built on the current Astra replacing the previous Astra TwinTop, company officials have said that the four-seater convertible will gain a new and bespoke name – much like VW’s Golf-based Eos.
Opel and its sister company Vauxhall will market the new convertible model as a more premium proposal than its predecessor, despite that fact that it gets a folding soft top instead of the TwinTop’s retractable hardtop.
The cabriolet will ride on longer version of the Astra’s platform and will be one of the first Opel / Vauxhall models to be fitted with GM Europe’s brand new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline unit with direct injection and Start/Stop, which will be offered in various states of tune with up to 197hp (200hp).
A choice of 1.7-liter and 2.0-liter turbodiesel engines will also be on offer in various European countries.
General Motors has not said if it has any plans to offer the convertible model as a Buick in North America, but given that it is closely related to the Buick Verano sedan, we wouldn’t rule it out just yet.
The new Opel convertible is expected to make its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in September, with the German company having already confirmed European sales for next spring.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoop
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