LOVERS of soft-top cars all know the score. Fingertips turning white as the fabric stretches to the point of tear; then just when you're about to give up, pop, and in goes the press-stud.
Just another dozen to go and the hood will be tucked neatly away beneath an attractive tonneau cover. Those were the days.
Actually they were a real pain, as anyone who has enjoyed the open-air luxury of a Mercedes SLK, Peugeot 206/307 CC or Renault Megane CC will confirm.
These cars all have retractable electric lids, and in the case of the Megane a wonderful overall design to go with it.
It's a model aimed at those who appreciate coupes and cabriolets, a sexy combination of both if you like - and no sign of that rear end that so divided opinion on the hatchback.
But there's far more to the Megane CC than just elegant lines. It has a full length glass roof, designed by Karmann, for one thing, so ensuring permanent contact with the outside world.
And when the sun comes out, a simple push on a centrally located button sets in motion the roof operation, which takes exactly 20 seconds. Very slick.
So too is the Megane's layout, comfort and storage. Now customary with Renault, there's no ignition key. Instead you insert a credit card sized piece of plastic, press the start/stop button, count to three and the engine fires up.
In fact you could almost get away with calling the CC a family car, provided there aren't more than two kids and their ages are still in single figures.
Correct, the back seats are well made and comfortable but the front ones need to be slid a good way forward to offer a hint of rear legroom.
Renault has plenty of experience in making their products user friendly and this model is no exception. You wouldn't expect to be overly blessed with storage space - yet there's a deep, lidded, box in each door as well as the traditional door bins, and both a glovebox and some central stowage. Even the boot is spacious with the roof in place.
With three trim levels - Extreme, Dynamique and top spec Privilege - from launch, and a pair of lively petrol engines plus a frugal oil-burner, Renault has seen the CC attract rave reviews.
All the car lacked was an engine with serious punch, something the French manufacturer has now addressed with the range-topping 2.0 Turbo 165bhp unit.
It is developed from the naturally aspirated 2.0 16V engine and while performance is stronger, the turbocharger's introduction actually improves both fuel consumption and emissions.
This model also comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, which adds to an engaging driving experience, though on the negative side the thick front door pillars obscure visibility, particularly at roundabouts.
FAST FACTS
Renault Megane Privilege 2.0 Turbo Coupe-Cabriolet
Price: £20,850
Mechanical: 165bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 137mph
0-62mph: 8.7 secs
Combined mpg: 35.3
Insurance group: 13
CO2 emissions: 191g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust