The test mule of the new Opel Astra Convertible was caught by spy photographers. The mule 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 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’s model will make its world premiere should take place at the Paris Motor Show this fall. 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.

Good news for Astra fans. The spies have filmed the new Opel (Vauxhall) Astra Convertible on test in Germany.

The 2013 Opel Astra Convertible is planned to go on sale by early 2013. The most important change over the previous Astra TwinTop is the replacement of the more complicated, heavier and costly retractable metal roof with a traditional fabric hood.

The test models are heavily based on the freshly revealed Opel Astra GTC sport hatchback featuring a longer rear end to improve the car’s looks and increase the available space for the rear passengers and the luggage compartment. Inside, the Astra Convertible will have room for four passengers with individual seats.

Opel will most likely tease the Astra Convertible with a near production concept model either in Frankfurt this fall or in Geneva next spring.

Opel’s British trade mark Vauxhall has launched a new sporty VXR styling pack for the Astra TwinTop model. The new bodykit for the coupe-cabriolet Astra is priced at $2,500 and it includes a deep front spoiler skirt, side sills, rear spoiler and lower spoiler skirt. Vauxhall also offers a wide range of complementary accessories, including sport exhausts, stainless steel pedals and alloy wheels.