GETTING something for nothing is rare enough, but buyers looking for a stylish drop top in the New Year will actually find they can get £950 worth of extras and actually pay £1,900 less! Based on the popular £18,895, 1.8-litre 16v model, which currently accounts for over half of all Astra Convertible sales, the new Exclusiv model costs just £16,995 on the road; that's a massive drop of £1,900. But instead of stripping out equipment to make the savings, Vauxhall has actually added £950 worth of stylish extras.

In addition to the standard remote control power roof, ESP and air-conditioning, the Exclusiv boasts 17-inch five spoke alloys which were previously reserved for the range-topping turbo model. In addition, a blue-coloured soft-top (black on Carbon Black models) and cruise control are also fitted. Part leather Silverstone seat trim, white instruments and front fog lights, add a sporty touch of luxury. For those who want to improve the looks of the car even further, massive 18-inch 11 spoke alloy wheels are available for a surprisingly reasonable £200 extra.

The bold new Astra Convertible Exlusiv is available in three colours - Carbon Black, Silver Lightning and Horizon Blue, and the first cars will be available in mid-January. And there's more good news for cost-conscious customers. As a special deal for buyers who get to dealers before the traditional springtime rush for drop tops, the Exclusiv is offered with a choice of zero percent finance over three years with a minimum deposit of 40% or a £1,000 Finance Deposit Allowance. The deal is only valid for orders registered before March 31, so it's best to bag a bargain before the first of the spring sunshine appears!