Opel will unveil its new three-door version of the all-important Astra range at next month's Paris Motor Show. Design is clearly taking more of a central role in Opel's model planning - after years of dour and unimaginative models - and the five-door version has already been well received.
Now the dramatically different sleek three-door remains true to the highly praised GTC concept shown in Geneva last year. It also introduces a significant design difference between the three and five-door versions.
At launch, the new Astra three-door will be available with a choice of four petrol and three common-rail diesel engines with power outputs ranging from 90 to 170 bhp.
A range topping 230 bhp version is planned to go on sale next summer.
Opel is keen to play up the difference between the two Astra versions, particularly since there are no plans for a saloon model.
In typical designer-speak, Friedhelm Engler, Astra chief designer, says: "We intensified the emotion of the three-door's looks compared to the other Astra models. That is, of course, not achieved by simply reducing the number of doors on an existing model."
Hoping to appear more sporty, the car is 15 mm lower than the five-door versions, with more arched sloping roof and the angular rear side windows. However, Opel is keen to play up the interior space, claiming that two adults can comfortably travel in the back.
The Astra three-door is manufactured in Antwerp, Belgium, where the five-door model and the estate are also produced.
Planned annual capacity for the three-door model is around 70,000 units. The three-door version goes on sale in spring 2005 with prices to be announced closer to that date.