New Vauxhall Calibra

THE Calibra is back! Vauxhall’s legendary coupé is about to make a welcome return in the shape of this sleek new sports car.

Replacing the much-loved and much-missed Calibra – the world’s most aerodynamic coupé when it arrived in 1989 – the model will sit above the forthcoming three-door Astra, set to debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

It will go into battle with a raft of desirable machines. With VW’s Golf-based Scirocco proving a hit, and demand for Peugeot’s 308 RC Z and Ford’s upcoming Focus-based two-door likely to be equally strong, the market for compact coupés is growing.


Thanks to a sleek body which mixes styling cues from the GTC Concept – seen at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show as a preview to the Insignia – and those of the new Astra, the car is set to take centre stage.


Along with the Astra Roadster (Issue 1,069), the compact newcomer will be the star of Vauxhall’s line-up, as the firm has put on hold its plans for a larger, Insignia-based coupé, in the style of the GTC.


So it carries a lot of hope on its shoulders – but, just like the original Calibra, it’s sure to turn heads.

Key to its appeal is the sloping roof, which gives the impression of a car that can slice through the air. The front boasts Astra-style headlights along with ‘sabre tooth’ vertical air intakes – a design feature taken directly from the GTC Concept – and a low splitter. Sculpted flanks and sleek tail-lights complete the distinctive shape.


Inside will be a 2+2 cabin, and it’s possible the Calibra could have a development of the GTC’s Flex4 arrangement, which allows the two seats in the back to slide fully forward, maximising boot space.

That would make it one of the most practical cars in its class. As with the Astra, the Calibra will sit on Vauxhall’s latest front-wheel-drive Delta platform.

But with a wider track and increased wheelbase – as you can see from this prototype (centre), which was disguised by a hatch body – it will provide better stability and traction.


Vauxhall’s FlexRide electronic damping system will be fitted as standard to flagship versions. This features Standard, Sport and Tour settings, letting the driver tweak suspension stiffness, throttle response and other variables.


Under the bonnet, power will come from a range of Astra-sourced engines, including a 157bhp 2.0-litre diesel and a 177bhp 1.6 turbo. A range-topping 2.0 turbo from the upcoming Astra VXR will kick out in excess of 250bhp.


The Calibra is still some way off, though. First, Vauxhall will launch the Astra three-door and estate, not to mention a new Zafira MPV. However, when the coupé finally does arrive, it will be an instant hit.

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