THE new Vauxhall Astra Coupe made its world debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show and is expected in the UK at the start of next year. Power will come from three units, including an ECOTEC 2.0-litre 190bhp turbo, based on the normally-aspirated 136bhp 2.0-litre. The turbo offers 0-62mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 149mph, but can still return 31mpg.

It is joined by an all-new 2.2-litre, 147bhp aluminium engine, offering 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds, and a 115bhp 1.8-litre engine which hits 62mph in 9.5 seconds. The new 2.2-litre unit, the first of a new range of engines, already complies with European emissions regulations expected to be introduced in 2005, thanks to its low weight, European On-Board Diagnosis System and quick-heating catalytic converter.

The coupe will offer sports seats with memory function, leather-covered steering wheel, electric windows, heated electric mirrors split folding rear seats and alloy wheels. Standard safety equipment is expected to include active head restraints, which reduce whiplash in a crash, front and side airbags for driver and passenger, ABS and traction control. High-spec editions will add climate control, rake and reach adjustable steering and remote central locking.

Measuring 4,267mm long and 1,390 high, it is 156mm shorter and 34mm lower than the three-door Astra hatchback and offers 460 litres of luggage space. The body is 20mm lower than an Astra, anti-roll bars have been uprated and springs stiffened. Disc brakes are used all round, the same as in the Astra 2.0 16-valve, but ventilated discs are used in the turbo.