Preview: 2009 Opel Corsa Cabrio

Opel is likely to introduce a new cabrio version of its Corsa compact car to do battle with a similar model being developed by Volkswagen, the Polo Cabrio. According to sources, the Opel cabrio will likely come equipped with a folding soft-top to keep costs low and it should be in showrooms by late next year. Obvious rivals include Peugeot’s 207CC and Opel’s own Tigra convertible.

The new Opel cabrio would likely get the same 75hp (55kW) and 125hp (92kW) CDTI powerplants as the regular Corsa, as well as the potent VXR version’s new 1.6L turbo petrol engine complete with 192hp (141kW) and a 0-62mph time of less than seven seconds. There could even by a hybrid variant as previewed by the Corsa Hybrid concept car but this car is yet to be given the green light for production.

The same Gamma platform, which underpins the current Corsa hatch, is also pegged to be used in a new mini SUV model which you can see a rendering of by clicking here.