Bruce Newton checks out folding hard-top four-seaters for less than $50,000.
Holden Astra TwinTop
The TwinTop is one of the bargains of the segment and still has four airbags, ABS and stability control, air-conditioning, six-CD audio, cruise control, reversing sensors and leather-faced front seats.
While the Astra doesn't avoid the CC "big bum" look as well as Eos, it is stylish with roof up or down. Inside it is not so impressive as it is very similar to a standard Astra.
The three-piece roof folds in about 26 seconds at speeds of up to 30 km/h. Wind turbulence is intrusive unless the wind blocker is used, which makes sitting in the back impossible.
The TwinTop is the first Holden-badged vehicle sold with a direct injection petrol engine. The 2.2-litre four-cylinder produces 110 kw and 210 Nm, officially averages 9.1 L/100 km (for a six-speed manual) and gets a 3.5 star rating from the Green Vehicle Guide.
The significant 1590 kg kerb weight makes this a comfortable cruiser rather than a firebrand.
Price: from $45,490.
For: stylish, reasonably equipped, smooth to drive and ride in.
Against: weight hinders performance, turbulent with roof down.
Renault Megane CC Dynamique
The Megane has a glass panel in its folding roof. It's a neat idea, although heat waves test the cabin's air-conditioner.
The Megane certainly tries to make up for that with a huge list of standard equipment including leather trim, climate control, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, six-CD audio, remote central locking, leather trim, reversing sensors, power windows and a trip computer. It includes six airbags, ABS and stability control in its safety repertoire, along with an outstanding five-star Euro NCAP independent crash-test rating.
The two-piece roof folds down in a slick 22 seconds but reduces boot space considerably. The Megane also struggles to fit four adults comfortably.
There's no doubt the emphasis is on cruising comfort. The seats are deeply cushioned, the ride is soft and the 98 kW/191 Nm 2.0-litre engine can provide no more than relaxed performance, even at a comparatively light 1430 kg.
Renault claims an 8.4 L/100 km fuel consumption average (for the manual), while the Green Vehicle Guide awards it three stars.
Roof down or up, the Megane is marred by noise and squeaks.
Price: from $48,990.
For: masses of equipment, unique glass roof, comfortable seats, excellent safety rating.
Against: slow, sloppy dynamics, squeaky.
Volkswagen Eos 2.0T FSI
The newest arrival in the segment has a spacious interior, long equipment list, impressive drivetrain and well-tuned ride and handling.
But it only just scrapes in at less than $50,000 in standard six-speed manual form. The six-speed DSG automated manual gearbox adds $2300.
The Eos uses the same turbocharged 2.0-litre engine as the Golf GTI. Producing 147 kW and 280 Nm, it is brilliantly responsive as well as frugal considering its outputs.
VW claims an 8.4 L/100 km fuel consumption rate (manual on 98RON fuel), while the Green Vehicle Guide awards it 3.5 stars out of five for emissions.
The roof folds into the boot in five pieces in 25 seconds. The short sections means a smaller rear end than most cabrio-convertibles. A power sunroof is cleverly incorporated.
Other standard equipment includes four airbags, ABS and stability control, dual climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, six-CD audio, remote central locking, park distance sensors and a trip computer.
The Eos is roomy by CC standards, capable of seating four people for a longer trip. However, the optional wind blocker cannot be used if the rear seats are occupied so get ready for some turbulence.
Price: from $49,990.
For: refined, well-built, comfortable, powerful, spacious.
Against: quite expensive, boot space minimised with roof down, no spare tyre, lots of options.
Peugeot 307CC Dynamic
Peugeot has been at the forefront of the coupe-cabrio scene for some years. And while the 307CC is due for replacement by the end of 2008, it's still an impressive and good-looking car.
There are two distinctly different versions of the 307CC and the Dynamic is more relaxed and softer. The Sport costs an extra $5000, comes with an extra 30 kW and without an auto option.
The Dynamic is powered by a 103 kW/200 Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that hauls the substantial 1543 kg kerb weight along stolidly.
It manages a claimed 8.1 L/100 km fuel consumption average (for the manual) and a 3.5 star Green Vehicle Guide rating.
Ride and handling is one of Peugeot's best recent efforts.
The 307CC's roof folds in about 25 seconds, reducing boot space significantly.
It's a four-seater but adults wouldn't want to spend too much time in the rear.
Standard equipment includes four airbags, ABS and stability control, dual climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, single-CD audio, remote central locking, fog lights, power windows and a trip computer. The 307CC has a four-star Euro NCAP rating.
Price: from $47,990.
For: great looks, nice dynamic balance, calm cabin.
Against: pedestrian performance, limited rear space, single-CD audio.
