WITH all the downsides to global warming, there is one thing we are guaranteed of... warmer and longer summers.
So with that in mind, what better excuse do you need to splash out on a fancy coupe cabriolet such as the Renault Megane? And with a panoramic roof that can be opened and closed in seconds at the push of a button, there is no fear about getting caught out during a sudden downpour.
The model supplied for the test drive - the two-litre Dynamique - came complete with a week of sunshine and I can thoroughly recommend a daily cool blast of early morning fresh air to blow away those cobwebs.
The Megane comes complete with a whole host of top notch specifications including dazzling red leather wheel and gear stick trimmings and seats, alloy wheels and a great sound system. And for those not brave enough to face the elements full-on, the air con is extremely efficient.
There is plenty of space for storing goodies throughout the cabin, although the boot area is drastically reduced with the roof down - well, it has to go somewhere!
And, although it is billed as having room for four adults, the back seat passengers would need to be expert contortionists to fully enjoy a long journey!
But one thing that stands out with the Megane CC, apart from its astoundingly good looks, is the drive. It hugs the road, gracefully eases through its six gears and offers comfort levels that are often lost with other CC models.
And as one might expect from a company that has constantly excelled on the safety front, the Megane has a whole host of accident prevention features.
There are anti-lock brakes, an electronic stability program, doors that lock automatically when the vehicle is in motion, a rain detector that switches on the wipers, a light sensor that switches on the lights and a tyre monitor warns of any loss of pressure.
So with safety covered, along with looks, performance, comfort and economy, what more could you wish for apart from another long hot summer!
FAST FACTS
Renault Megane Dynamique 2.0 dCi 150 Coupe-Cabriolet
Price: £21,530
Mechanical: 150bhp, 1,995cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 132mph
0-62mph: 9.5 secs
Combined fuel: 49.6
Insurance group: 11
CO2 emissions: 151g/km
BiK rating: 20%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust