Vauxhall Cascada Elite 1.6i first drive

The most recent addition to the Vauxhall Cascada convertible line-up, with a new 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine under the bonnet.

We’ve been quite impressed by the Luton manufacturer’s mid-sized convertible since it first arrived in early 2013, pitched as a sleek rival for the likes of the Audi A5 cabriolet and Volkswagen Eos.

Based on Vauxhall Astra underpinnings – but not as close a relative as the little-loved Astra TwinTop that preceded it – the Cascada’s strongest suit is its value-for-money compared to the (admittedly ritzier) drop-top Audi A5.

The petrol engine range was limited at launch, with a choice of a 1.4-litre turbo with a modest 138bhp or a 1.6-litre direct injection unit offering 168bhp that came attached to an automatic transmission.

Hence the reason for the introduction of this 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, which produces maximum power and torque outputs of 197bhp and 207lb ft respectively. Teamed with a six-speed manual gearbox, this version of the Cascada is capable of a 0-62mph sprint of 8.5sec.

Available in two trim levels, SE and Elite, equipment levels are generous, with features such as air-con, 18-inch alloys, a DAB tuner, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, rear parking sensors, an aux-in port and a USB connection all included.

Our test Cascada was a range-topping Elite model, which comes with additional kit that includes climate control, heated electric sports seats with leather trim and automatic lights and wipers.

The test car also rode on 19in five-spoke alloys (a £500 option), and included other options that swelled the on-the-road price of £28,310 up to £32,520.

Pulling away from a standstill, the new 1.6-litre turbocharged unit doesn’t initially impress with its acceleration, which isn’t surprising given the weight that it is being asked to pull.

Contributing to that are the cross-underbody strengthening elements and high-strength, reinforced A-pillars that give the Cascada commendable levels of torsional stiffness.

Once you’re on the move, however, the engine is flexible, free-revving and enjoyable to use. It’s extremely smooth, which makes it very well suited to a car where luxury and comfort are higher on the list of priorities than out-and-out performance.

The new powerplant doesn’t emit a particularly exciting note, although that’s only a disadvantage if you expect your top-down motoring to be accompanied by a stirring aural symphony.

The Cascada, which is fitted with Vauxhall’s sophisticated HiPerStrut front suspension, is fairly well composed on most types of road. It is devoid of wallowing during cornering, although the weight can be evident under heavy braking.

Don’t expect a purposeful sporting drive – even with the extra power provided by the 1.6-litre turbo, the focus is still firmly on providing a relaxed gait. The ride on our car’s optional 19in wheels could be occasionally jarring at slow speeds but was otherwise very comfortable.