YOU can always rely on the Italians for their style and flair and on those counts, the Alfa Romeo certainly lives up to expectations.
On thing, sadly you cannot rely on, is the British summer and the distinct lack of opportunities for open-top motoring.
So with an Alfa Spider for the week, with a roof that can be lowered at the flick of a switch in less than 25 seconds, every opportunity has to be grabbed - even if that does mean pulling over at a moment's notice when the first spots of rain hit the screen!
With the roof down, it's a fabulous driving experience, powered by a 3.2-litre engine and with permanent four-wheel-drive.
But with the roof up, it did feel a little claustrophobic and that bone-rattling ride that seems fun on a sunny day, becomes more than a little irritating in the driving rain.
However, it is an Alfa Romeo and it is a true looker with fabulous flowing lines and bold features - always guaranteed to turn heads whatever the weather.
Inside the two-seater, the driver's surroundings have been designed with an emphasis on ergonomic functionality.
There are multi-lingual displays, easy-to-read instruments and controls are all easy-to-hand.
Despite the roof lowering into its own made-to-measure compartment, the luggage area is quite spacious and there are numerous alternative storage areas throughout the cabin.
And the list of top-notch features seems almost endless with dual zone climate control, tinted windows, a rear parking sensor and cruise control to name but a few.
Safety features are also class-leading with anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, five airbags including a driver's knee bag and a fire prevention system which cuts off any fuel supply in the event of an accident.
All in all, the Spider has bundles to offer, but the whole experience is improved ten-fold with a little ray of sunshine!
FAST FACTS
Alfa Romeo Spider 3.2JTS V6 Q4
Price: £31,250
Mechanical: 260bhp, 3195cc, 24-valve, V6 engine driving all four wheels via 6-sd manual gearbox
Max speed: 149mph
0-62mph: 7secs
Combined mpg: 24.6
Insurance group: 19
CO2 emissions: 273g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 8yrs anti-rust