Vauxhall looks to be back firing on all cylinders with its new, five-star Astra and rejuvenated small car range. A fresh Insignia is on its way, too, and there are rumours of a replacement for the ageing Antara mid-size SUV.
But arguably the most exciting news is that the brand (along with its European sister company, Opel) is planning a new two-door, 2+2 coupé called the GT – to rival Audi’s TT and the VW Scirocco. Our exclusive images show the new Vauxhall GT could look.
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A source close to Vauxhall confirmed the car is under consideration, and that we’d see a concept at next year’s Geneva Motor Show. It’s likely that GM bosses will assess the model’s feasibility following press and public reaction to the show car.
The new Vauxhall GT takes its inspiration from a previous Opel concept, first seen at the 1965 Frankfurt Motor Show. At the time, the Opel GT Experimental was dubbed the ‘baby Corvette’ – and became the first European concept to go into series production.
Vauxhall GT: engine options
The new GT – rumoured to be based on Vauxhall’s new lightweight Astra hatch – will use a front-wheel-drive set-up, alongside a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. It’s likely to feature the Astra’s new 1.6-litre Whisper diesel, as well as an uprated version of the 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol. A six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, with an optional, economy-friendly Easytronic auto for those wanting two pedals instead of three.
Vauxhall GT: design
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It’s been a while since Vauxhall had a true coupe to top its model range. The last was the Monaro, on sale for just two years between 2004 and 2006, while the sleek Calibra was canned back in 1998. Of course, the Astra has long spawned three-door variants – like the last GTC – although they’ve always been more practical hatches than sleek coupes.
Our images show the car’s sharp front end with prominent Vauxhall badge flanked by slim LED headlights. The design will also be influenced by the Monza concept revealed at Frankfurt two years ago – this car previewed what we could expect from Vauxhall’s next-generation models. The similarities can be seen in the exaggerated air vents, slender body and sleek profile.
Holes in the bonnet hint at the turbocharged engines lurking beneath, while you’ll notice all the usual sporty creases down the flanks, with high haunches and a short rear overhang. There are some deep incisions in the back, with a high-placed number plate and small boot spoiler. The steeply raked screen finishes off the sleek, sports car profile.
Inside, we can expect all GM’s interior expertise, with a dashboard lifted straight from the Astra. The latest connectivity options should also be offered.
Vauxhall GT: when and how much?
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If given the green light, the GT will mark the final piece in Vauxhall’s updated model range. All being well, we could see the new Vauxhall GT coupe on our roads as soon as 2017, with the possibility of a convertible just 12 months later. Prices are likely to be competitive, too, kicking off from around £22,000 – hitting premium makers like VW and Audi right where it hurts.
Do you like the idea of a new Vauxhall coupe to challenge the Audi TT? Let us know in the comments section below...