Opel is sure taking its time to complete the lineup of its popular Astra model. It has already been close to three years since GM’s European brand introduced the five-door hatchback, which was followed by the Sports Tourer estate, the three-door GTC and more recently, the 276hp OPC flagship sports model.

In fact, while we’re still waiting for the presentation of the four door sedan (closely related to the Buick Verano) and convertible models, we found out that Opel is working on a mild update for the five-door hatch!

The Convertible model seen in these latest spy shots will enter production next year, which means that its world premiere should take place at the Paris Motor Show this fall or at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The vehicle caught on camera is an early prototype as the front doors are carried over from the hatchback model complete with their frames. The production version, which has been teased in an official rendering, will have frameless windows and seating for four passengers.

The most important change over the older Astra TwinTop is the replacement of the retractable metal roof with a traditional fabric hood, which will look much better than the temporary solution seen on this prototype.

The new Opel Astra Convertible and its sister model from Vauxhall, will be built alongside other Astra models at GM’s Gliwice plant in Poland.

PHOTO GALLERY

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