Rumor: Opel Calibra could return
By Andrew C., 27 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
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There are reports saying that Vauxhall/Opel fans will not only be treated with a striking new 2010 Astra since there will be about 20 more new models the company will be coming out with in the next three succeeding years. One of these models is a third version in the brand new Insignia range which is still under a tight lid. It is described as a coupe with four-wheel drive, rumored to be the spiritual replacement of the Calibra and will be lined up with the VXR8 as the company's flagship model by 2012.
The two-door variant will receive wide wheel arches and a menacing front section from the Opel GTC concept car which was showcased at the Geneva Motor Show back in 2007. The car will be powered by a turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 unit the same engine found in the new Insignia VXR which generates 350bhp and accelerates the car from standstill to 60mph in under 6 seconds with a maximum speed of 155mph.
Although the new model comes with lots of the engineering found in the Insignia, it will be more than just a coupe variant of the family car. First off, its wheelbase has been shortened and handling was improved by modifying the suspension. It is expected also that its four-wheel-drive system will be improved to provide better steering and posture.
However, Vauxhall's future is not only littered with fast cars, as the company is planning to bring in a new diminutive coupe-cabriolet patterned after the Corsa as a replacement for the Tigra which was shelved, also a new Zafira, modified Antara compact SUV and a new small off-road version as well. Besides all these, the company is also bent on producing fuel-economical products beginning with an ecoFLEC variant of the Insignia.
Also currently in development is the battery-driven Trixx, the extended range electric family model, the Ampera, and fuel cell technology from GM. Although the parent company GM is intent in selling Vauxhall, Opel and Saab, for the moment the cost of these innovations will be shared. [via autoexpress]
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