WHO says that having kids stops you from having a flash convertible?
Well although it’s technically possible, it’s probably not very practical in everyday terms.
However, the Vauxhall Cascada does have Isofix points in the rear and an Easy Entry system, allowing simple access to the back seats. With a minimum load volume of 280 litres with the roof down, and up to 380 litres roof up, it’s an exceptionally practical convertible.
The hood can also be opened in just 17 seconds, at speeds of up to 30mph, which delighted my two children.
The Cascada comes in two trims, SE and Elite.
There’s a broad choice of engines with a 1.4-litre petrol with 140PS, a 1.6-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre CDTi with either 165PS or 195PS. I drove the new 1.6 Turbo – very punchy with plenty of pace. Wind and road noise are also well suppressed.
At nearly 4.7 metres in length, the four-seat, fabric-roof Cascada is longer than an Audi A5 Convertible, and nearly £8,000 cheaper. It is also the first full-sized convertible designed, engineered and manufactured by Vauxhall since the 1930s.
Standard equipment include daytime running lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, CD/MP3 CD player, DMB digital radio, USB connection with iPod control, Bluetooth phone system, cruise control, rear parking distance sensors and LED rear lights.
Inside, seats are available in a range of embossed fabrics and leathers, with the option of ergonomic, Nappa-leather trimmed seats, which can be heated or ventilated.
The heat reflective leather seats are a first from Vauxhall. The Bayer Cool Leather System reduces the temperature up to 20-30 degrees and are effective when not in direct sunlight meaning lower residual heat levels and the warming process takes longer. This feature is standard with all leather seats.
Safety features include Electronic Stability Programme-Plus, driver’s and front passenger airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, lane departure warning, active rollover protection system and active-safety front seat head restraints. Like most convertibles, there are no airbags for rear occupants.
The Cascada’s fabric roof can be specified in one of three colours, which can be coordinated with one of ten body colours.
As with all Vauxhalls, Cascada owners will benefit from Lifetime Warranty, lasting the life of the car or up to 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Factfile
Car: Vauxhall Cascada Elite 1.6 Turbo
On the road: £28,890
Top speed: 135mph
0-60mph: 9.2 seconds
Fuel: 39.2mpg
CO2 emissions: 168g/km
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