‘Calibra’ heads Vauxhall plan

It’s not only the stunning new Astra that Vauxhall fans have got to look forward to – as Auto Express can reveal the famous brand promises to serve up 20 new models over the next three years.

Most exciting of these is the still-secret, third variant in the all-new Insignia range. Described as a coupé, the four-wheel-drive performance car will be the spiritual successor to the Calibra – and will line up with the limited-run VXR8 as the firm’s flagship as early as 2012.

The two-door will borrow the wide wheelarches and aggressive front end from the Opel GTC concept, first revealed at 2007’s Geneva Motor Show.Power comes from the same turbocharged 2.8-litre V6 as in the new Insignia VXR. This will offer at least 350bhp, and propel the car from 0-60mph in less than six seconds on the way to a 155mph top speed.

While the newcomer shares much of its engineering with the Insignia, our spies tell us it will be more than just a coupé version of the family car. For starters, technicians at the company are reported to be shortening the model’s wheelbase and modifying the suspension to improve the handling. It’s also likely that the 4WD system will be refined to provide greater steering feel and poise.

But the future for Vauxhall is not only about fast cars, Auto Express can reveal. Drivers can expect to see a new small coupé-cabriolet based on the Corsa – to replace the axed Tigra – as well as a new Zafira, facelifted Antara compact SUV and a new small off-roader.

And bosses plan to lead the way for fuel-efficient vehicles, starting with an ecoFLEX version of the Insignia. The battery-powered Trixx city car is also in development, as is the extended range electric family model, the Ampera, while Vauxhall will also continue to develop fuel cells, using technology proven by parent firm General Motors.

GM’s financial situation, and its keenness to sell Vauxhall, Opel and Saab, are all hurdles. But it’s thought agreements to share the cost of such innovation will continue for the time being.