Dec 29 2000 - Vauxhall’s striking new Astra Cabrio will have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show (March 1 - 11)

The dynamically styled two-door convertible has a fully retracting soft top operated by remote control that opens and closes at the push of a button.

The Cabrio’s elegant lines were penned by a team of designers from GM Europe and Bertone who created a sporty and stylish design that looks particularly striking when the top is open.

The Cabrio is designed first and foremost for open-air enthusiasts, yet it has all the advantages of an all-year compact-class car, with four full-size seats in a spacious interior and plenty of rear legroom thanks to its long wheelbase of 2606 mm.

Cabrio's extensive safety package includes front active head restraints, Vauxhall’s patented pedal release system, front airbags, side airbags (option), three-point belts at all four seats and belt tensioners at the front. Reinforced A pillars at the front and foam-covered steel head-restraint frames at the rear provide roll-over protection.

ECOTEC four-cylinder engines choices are the 1.8 125PS and the smooth-running, 2.2 aluminium unit from VX220 and the Astra Coupe, which produces a 125mph top speed.

It is built alongside Astra Coupé at the Italian design specialists, Bertone.