Opel Tigra 1.4
Easytronic
The
Opel Tigra is proof that cabriolets with folding hard tops
don't always have to be astronomically expensive
What's
New
If you've never driven a convertible, you could be forgiven
for thinking why on earth, in our muggy climate, would anyone
want to inflict major sweat stain damage on their clothing
by tooling around in a topless car?
First
of all, it doesn't really always get that hot, at least
not to the point that you'll end up driving around sitting
in a puddle of salty water. Secondly, although it's not
very efficient to use them in such a manner, most convertibles'
air-conditioning systems can just about cope during the
times when you're stuck in traffic snarls.
The
whole point of open top motoring, however, is to be seen
in an open top motor. Discomfort is clearly acknowledged
and willingly endured in this light. The secondary reason
is the physical experience of being battered by the elements,
and in that sense it's a little bit like riding a motorcycle,
only safer. Convertible aficionados don't feel right unless
they've got bugs in their teeth and the sun slow-cooking
their brains, which paradoxically, really does make one
feel more alive.
The
new Opel Tigra TwinTop adds to the burgeoning number of
coupe-cabriolets and it's aimed at the entry level convertible
buyer. At a price of $92,688 with COE, it's the most affordable
cabriolet on the market, but that doesn't mean that you're
missing out on a host of big car features. It's perkily
styled for starters, and it bears a close family resemblance
with Opel's latest model range.
How
it Performs
On the road, the Tigra is pretty refined and proves to be
a capable handler. With the roof up, that is. In roof down
mode, you'll want to simply cruise so the resultant loss
in structural rigidity doesn't matter so much.
The
90bhp 1.4-litre engine is also a willing performer. It's
mated to Opel's five speed semi-automatic transmission,
though, which might not suit everyone's tastes. It does
work better if you drive it in more or less the same manner
as you would a proper manual, however.
There's
only room for two, but the Tigra does offer plenty of storage
space. There's a huge void behind the seats that should
be sufficient to swallow the spoils from most moderately
frenetic shopping sprees, and if that's not enough, there's
useful space in the boot, too, roof up or down. In roof
down mode, a divider in the luggage compartment helps prevent
you from stowing luggage where it can be crushed by the
roof mechanism. Gaining access to the boot is the work of
a finger - you press an expensively-turned metal button
and the boot opens and closes electrically, which makes
for good kerb-side theatre.
How
it Stacks Up
In the Opel Tigra you get a stylish and capable coupe-convertible
that comes with plenty of equipment. Factoring in the attractive
price tag, what further excuse do you need to go topless?
You'd
expect a certain level of rounded cuteness, judging by some
of the Tigra's rivals but the Opel eschews this to a considerable
degree. Instead, you get plenty of sharply raked lines and
right angles which help to give the Tigra a more purposeful
stance. Inside, you get a fair amount of equipment too,
including an integrated stereo with remote controls for
the same on the steering wheel.
| Technical Specifications |
|
MODEL
Opel Tigra 1.4 Easytronic
ENGINE
Engine: 1,364cc 16v in-line 4
Max Power: 90bhp @ 5,600rpm
Max Torque: 125Nm @ 4,000rpm
TRANSMISSION
5-speed semi automatic
TOP SPEED
178 kmh
0-100km/h
13.4s
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