These devices are in addition to the existing Astra models' active and passive safety features, which include two-stage front airbags for driver and front passenger, thorax/pelvis side airbags in front, and three-point safety belts for all passengers. The driver and front seat occupant passenger also benefit from active head restraints which help to reduce the risk of whiplash in the event of a rear collision.


Vauxhall Astra TwinTop - Design

From the outset, AstraTwinTop was designed as a car with a dual personality. It had to build on Vauxhall's reputation for stylish design by being immediately identifiable as a member of the Astra family, while at the same time delivering its own image of suave sophistication.

The much-lauded Astra Sport Hatch was the source of TwinTop's frontal styling, instantly marking it out as a sporty member of the Astra line-up. But despite the intentional similarities, over 70 per cent of TwinTop's body parts are unique to the model.

With the roof closed, TwinTop has an elegant, coupe-like profile. Its low roof, high flanks and sweeping swage line give it a commanding presence on the road, while the clever roof mechanism allows a much more harmonious look than you'd normally expect of a coupe-cabrio. The rear deck, for example, is no bigger than that of a standard coupe, with no huge 'aircraft-carrier' style flat surface at the back to disguise the roof stowage area, nor the unsightly roof storage hump of some rivals.

'Our aim,' said chief designer Uwe Muller, 'was to create a car that is just as eye-catching with the roof up as when the roof is down- something that until now has not been common in this segment. Thanks to the TwinTop's arched side graphics and low-roof, the four-seater looks just as dynamic and sporty as a hardtop coupe.'

The result is not only stylish, but is also the most aerodynamic member of the Astra family, with a drag coefficient of just 0.31. This not only allows for greater stability and fuel economy, but also means Astra TwinTop is incredibly refined, its slippery shape significantly reducing wind noise at speed.

With the roof down, Astra TwinTop looks even more seductive. There's no obstructive rollover hoop, meaning the classic arched profile becomes even more apparent.

Neat stylish touches include a unique honeycomb grille and smooth, elliptical rear lamps that distinguish TwinTop from other Vauxhall Astra models, while a smart chrome strip across the rear adds to the upmarket appearance. A range of new colours and styling options such as smart 18-inch alloy wheels add to the diversity of the range.  

And despite its compact appearance, Astra TwinTop is actually comparable to models which cost thousands more. It's only marginally shorter than a BMW 3-Series Cabriolet, for example, while its 2.61-metre wheelbase allows for impressive cabin space normally reserved for more practical hatchback or saloon models.


Vauxhall Astra TwinTop - Interior

Vauxhall's designers focused as much on the style of Astra Twintop's interior as they did on its outward appearance, and the result is a cabin that is incredibly luxurious and refined compared to other cars in its class.

High quality materials have been used throughout, with the same premium plastics as other Astra models used on the dash and centre console. Smart chrome door handles and chrome ringed dials add to the upmarket aura, while optional leather trim sets of the interior with a positively plush air.

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