Vauxhall Astra 2006 review

The Astra TwinTop is the best-looking small family coupe-cabrio to have been launched so far. It drives incredibly well, and is also competitively priced. In addition, if you get your order in early, it's offered with a free launch pack. This brings extras such as a CD autochanger to Design-spec models, while the entry-level and Sport variants get pop-up roll hoops, rather than fixed items.

Even the most price-sensitive buyers agree, when it comes to coupe-cabriolets, money isn't the only folding stuff that matters - the roof is equally important. A badly thought-out top won't just ruin practicality; looks and style will be damaged, too.

But with the Astra TwinTop, Vauxhall says it's got everything covered. Not only does the newcomer boast a compact three-piece folding metal roof and a spacious cabin, but great value for money, too. And with a starting price of £16,995, it appears to be a strong contender for class honours. So what's the Astra like on the road?

If the contest was judged on looks alone, the TwinTop would score an easy win. Compared to coupe-cabrio versions of the Renault Megane, Peugeot 307 and forthcoming Ford Focus, the Vauxhall is a lot tidier, thanks to the compact nature of its rear end.

With five electric motors and eight hydraulic cylinders, the three-piece roof system is complex, but very effective. The top is operated by a button above the windscreen, and takes 26 seconds to fold.

Once stowed, there is 205 litres of boot space left - enough room for a couple of suitcases at least. Meanwhile, the clever EasyLoad function raises the rear deck by 25cm at the touch of a button for improved access beneath the stowed roof.

The compact folded lid also means there's decent legroom in the TwinTop's two rear seats. Unfortunately, the hood limits headroom for taller passengers, and leaves the cabin feeling cramped. But overall, it's a pleasant place in which to spend time, and the colour-coded seats and smart door trims certainly brighten up the well built interior.

Four engines will be available when the TwinTop arrives here in the UK in May. Petrol options include 1.6 and 1.8-litre powerplants, plus a 2.0-litre Turbo with 197bhp. A 148bhp 1.9 CDTI - the first diesel in an Astra convertible - will appeal to fleet buyers, thanks to economy of 48mpg and a 165g/km CO2 emissions figure.

We tried all but the 1.6-litre model, and believe the new 138bhp 1.8-litre petrol version will provide the best balance of price, performance and economy for most buyers. The powerplant is free-revving and smooth, but needs to be worked hard for swift progress - although the slightly notchy five-speed manual gearbox hampers progress. The CDTI diesel and 2.0-litre Turbo petrol models are both equipped with six-speed transmissions, but whichever engine you choose, the Astra TwinTop handles well. Body roll is minimal in corners and there's plenty of grip.

Still, we do have some criticisms. Compared to the standard Astra, the steering feels slightly dull, and lopping off the roof means the chassis does flex over rough surfaces.

Even so, these are small complaints, and compared to other convertibles the new TwinTop is an impressive driver's machine - particularly when you consider that with the hood in place, the additional bracing helps to virtually eliminate scuttle shake.

And let's face it, coup�-cabrios are supposed to be more about style than razor-sharp driving dynamics.