This is the first official drawing of the next Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall, the cabrio has been penned by Brit 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.

Vauxhall 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. Prices should start at around £20,000 and the Astra cabrio is likely to be in showrooms from early 2013.

Alisdair Suttie - 9 Jun 2011