Vauxhall Astra TwinTop Review
Published: 27th June 2007
Vauxhall Astra TwinTop
Of course where the 1.9 CDTi diesel really scores points is the fuel consumption, whilst touring we were achieving around 37 mpg, Vauxhall quote an official combined figure of 47.1 mpg compared to 29.7 mpg for the petrol 2.0i turbo. For those of you that wish to know about the 1.9 CDTi's green credentials then the CO2 figure is 160g/km, plus the engine benefits from a (dpf) diesel particulate filter.
In summary we were very impressed with the diesel engine, it would be our TwinTop engine of choice. It is reasonably quiet, flexible which allows for relaxed driving and it is relatively frugal.
How It Drove - Ride/Handling
With the roof and windows up the Astra TwinTop remained fairly rigid. Although the shell is 30% stiffer than the outgoing Astra Convertible, lower the top and windows and you can feel the TwinTop flex, especially on poorer road surfaces.
Overall the TwinTop was fun to drive and we liked the weight of the steering. Although, the handling is sharp it is not as good as a fixed head sports hatchback. In all honesty this car is more about cruising than racing around, especially considering how heavy the TwinTop is at around 200 kg heavier than the equivalent Astra.
Our test car sat on optional 17” twin spoke alloy wheels (£350 - you also get cruise control) and was fitted with 225/45 tyres. The ride borders on the hard side although the TwinTop makes a good attempt at absorbing the all too common potholes.
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