This is the first official drawing of the next Opel Astra Cabriolet, which is widely expected to use a fabric roof in place of the outgoing model's folding metal top.
Based on the GTC coupé, which has just had its specifications confirmed by Opel, the cabrio has been penned by Mark Adams. It is set to be slightly longer than the GTC to balance the looks and avoid the high-set rear deck of many rival convertibles in the same class.
Opel has also said it is working to use as many lightweight materials as possible to keep down the overall weight of the Astra cabrio. A fabric roof will help with this, as well as freeing up more luggage space than a folding metal roof design.
The Astra cabrio will be a four seater and come with the same engine range as the GTC, so expect 1.4- and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol units and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel. The Astra cabrio is likely to be in showrooms from early 2013.