What's the news?

Vauxhall has released initial details and images of its new 'full-size' four-seat convertible, the Cascada. The company describes its soft-top model as expanding into a new market sector that it hasn't occupied since the 1930s - a convertible version of the Cavalier was offered in the 1980s but the Cascada is a standalone model.

Exterior

At nearly 4.7 metres long the Cascada is larger than the Audi A5 Cabriolet and about the same length as a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet. The styling is supposed to recall 'Grandes Routieres' of a past age. We can't see the resemblance but it is a neat shape with sculpted body sides and a hood that disappears completely when folded.

Vauxhall has used a traditional fabric roof rather than a folding hard top. The roof contains a polyester fleece middle layer to provide acoustic and thermal insulation. Folding the roof takes 17 seconds and can be done at speeds up to 30mph.

Interior

Inside, Vauxhall has given the Cascada new interior modules not shared with any other model; although the layout is similar to the Insignia's. The instrument panel is surrounded by soft-touch material and sits on a wing-shaped panel that wraps into the doors. New, deeply contoured seats are fitted and come in a range of embossed fabrics and leather upholstery. Ergonomic Nappa leather seats with heating and ventilation are an option.

Mechanicals

At launch three engines will be available: 1.4- and 1.6-litre turbo petrol units or a 2.0-litre turbodiesel. The 1.6-litre petrol option is the first production example of Vauxhall's new MGE (Mid-Size Gasoline Engine) family. Maximum power is 170hp with up to 280Nm of torque available thanks to an overboost function. Initially this motor will only be available with a new six-speed automatic gearbox.

The structure features extensive reinforcement and is said to be 43% stiffer than the Astra TwinTop - Vauxhall's last convertible. All versions use the HiPerStrut front suspension first seen on the Insignia VXR.

Anything else?

Prices will be announced when the order books open at the start of 2013. UK deliveries will start in March next year.