Volkswagen Eos
Summer's here, coupé-cabriolets are hot, but which is the best to own? You could do a lot worse than the Volkswagen Eos, which boasts first-rate construction, superb refinement and a stunning drive.
The Eos adds plenty of substance to the desirability of its VW badge. There's lots of standard equipment, a full complement of safety kit, competitive running costs and the added reassurance of strong resale values.
It comes at a premium over the Vauxhall and the Renault, but if ever a car was worth the extra cash, then it's the Eos. It also has an ingenious folding top that incorporates a glass sunroof.
Although luggage space is tight when the roof is folded down, there's not a lot else to criticise. The 2.0-litre petrol version gives a decent 148bhp and is available from £20,790. Alternatively, genuine hot-hatch pace comes in the form of the 197bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine from the Golf GTI.
Alloy wheels, air-con, stability control, rear parking sensors and a CD player with four speakers are all standard fitments.
Moving up to the Sport trim version will bring you larger alloy wheels, some splashes of aluminium interior trim, four extra stereo speakers and sports suspension.
Renault Mégane CC 2.0T 16v Dynamique
The Renault isn't the best car of this foursome, but it's attractively priced and cheap to run. Sharp looks aside though, its lacklustre drive and body shake limit its appeal. Priced at £20,305, but go online and save £4,400.
Vauxhall Astra Twintop 2.0i T Design
The Vauxhall performs well, but the drive is poor and it's a thirsty beast. Little touches like a Sport mode button and big glovebox don't atone for a confusing dashboard and noisy roof-folding mechanism. Priced at £20,740.
Volvo C70 2.4 Sport
The Volvo is a reasonable car - stylish, safe and well built. But its slow-witted driving manners do little to justify the price (£26,225 for Sport trim), though it does include climate, cruise and stability controls, alloy wheels, airbags and power windows.
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