Vauxhall has confirmed that a compact coupe-roadster will be introduced in 2004.

The new model will feature an electro-hydraulically operated, retractable steel roof.

Kevin Wale, Vauxhall Motors chairman and managing director, said: "This car is another important milestone on our way to having attractive, niche-models accounting for around 20 per cent of our product range. The new coupe-roadster promises buyers a lot of fun."

The French coachbuilder, Groupe Henri Heuliez S.A., will build the new Vauxhall. The name and further details will be announced at a later date.