simonb Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 OFFICIAL PRESS-RELEASE: EMBARGO: NOT FOR PUBLICATION BEFORE MONDAY 1 AUGUST ASTRA TWINTOP – IT’S THREE PIECE SWEET! Folding hard top for latest convertible Astra Unique three section roof allows stylish lines and spacious interior On sale from spring 2006 Vauxhall has lifted the lid on the latest version of its new Astra – the stunning TwinTop. Using the latest in roof technology, the folding hard top is composed of three main parts instead of the two used by rivals. This means there are far fewer compromises to the car’s rear-end looks and interior space, and the TwinTop retains all the style and grace for which the Astra range has become renowned. At the press of a button, the two overhead sections of the roof stack on top of the rear window to fold away neatly into a compact space under the rear tonneau. The result is a practical four-seater open top for enjoying the summer sun, coupled to the practicality, security and refinement of a snug four-seater coupe in less clement weather. Set to make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the newcomer will go on sale in spring 2006. It will come with a choice of four engines, including Vauxhall’s acclaimed 150PS 1.9-litre performance diesel. Entry-level versions will use the 105bhp 1.6-litre Twinport petrol engine, while other petrol choices will include an all-new fuel efficient 1.8-litre 140PS unit. The flagship model uses the storming 200PS 2.0-litre Turbo from the Astra SRi. The newcomer will build on Vauxhall’s reputation for stylish design inside too, with new trims and upholstery which will be exclusive to the TwinTop model. Rather than being a ‘chop-top’ the Astra has been designed from the ground up to be a convertible, and as such has an exceptionally rigid bodyshell. In addition to preserving the hatchback model’s exceptional safety record, this also ensures its acclaimed driving dynamics are also maintained. Prices for the TwinTop will be announced closer to the on sale date, but in common with other models in the Vauxhall stable are expected to offer great value for money. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
simonb Posted August 1, 2005 Author Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 Apologies if anyone else has a 'MAAAAAAAAAASIVE' picture!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
simonb Posted August 1, 2005 Author Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 Also, apologies if any has no picture! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
simonb Posted August 1, 2005 Author Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 What do we all think?? I think it looks ok - for an Astra! Apparently, £17k will get you the 105 bhp model - bit slow but more of a car for those that trim barnets that those that trim laptimes! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ari Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 I really hope that by using a three section roof, they won't have these awful awful extended windscreens that the 307CC and Megane have. On those cars, in order to shorten the roof section as much as possible, the screen actualy curls right back over your head. It looks terrible and ruins the open top driving experience (as the open bit is virtually behind you). I believe Volvo are going a similar way with a three section folding hard top for the new V70 cabrio. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ari Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 This is what I mean, look at that stupid long windscreen, it's longer than it is wide! Curves right back over the front seats, terrible. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paul Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 what have you linked to in here??? everytime i click into this topic i het a logon popop up for www.newspress.co.uk Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malagus Posted August 1, 2005 Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 same here- though mine's a firefox popup. If there's a VXR version, then gimme gimme gimme!!! sounds good. The twin top mechanism is similar to the Tigra IIRC, so should be good, combined with the excellent chassis tuned by lotus. just needs the VXR engine in it then now. I hope they keep it stiff Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
simonb Posted August 1, 2005 Author Report Share Posted August 1, 2005 Oops - sorry guys - it's a link to a media site. PM me if you really want the password. It's not a great site - just a piccie of the Vox and a lot of other car news as told by the press depts. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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