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Surprisingly, the coupe version of the capable Astra will not go on sale until next summer. Maybe that is why Vauxhall chose to hide it in a corner of the stand near the free wine - obviously a distraction....
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No need for distractions though. The Astra Coupe looks better in the metal than in the press photographs published prior to the show. The deep blue paintwork may well have been the reason (all press shots to date have been of metallic orange cars).
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When the Vauxhall Astra Coupe does finally arrive, it will be facing stiff competition, but should be capable of standing its ground with a choice of a 2.0-litre turbo engine, a 1.8-litre 16v unit, or the 2.2-litre as shown in the VX220 sports car. The top of the range model should top 125mph, and reach 60mph in about 8.0 seconds.
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The Coupe has a 20mm lower chassis than the regular Astra, and a reduced windscreen angle to aid aerodynamics (and looks). In conclusion, we think that the Astra Coupe is a logical step on from the much-loved Calibra. The only problem may be that the design will be too familiar by the time it reaches the showroom.
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Back to Vauxhall @ The 1999 London Motor Show
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