Four-seat cabriolets tested

WHEN the sun is out, there’s nothing better than driving a cabrio. But wind-in-the-hair thrills are best enjoyed with friends, which is why four-seat cars are so popular. Mercedes’ latest E-Class Cabriolet aims to build on the success of the Coupé and saloon. A fine array of kit makes it an appealing buy. But is it the must-have drop-top of 2010? We lined it up with four alternatives, stretching across all price brackets, to find out.

VW’s Eos is our favourite family model, and with a clever 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine the new BlueMotion Technology version promises impressive performance and economy. At the other end of the scale is MINI’s Cooper S Convertible. Its eco credentials are boosted by stop-start, but its real focus is on power, courtesy of a 184bhp 1.6 petrol turbo.

Need something more rugged? Don’t forget Jeep’s Wrangler Ultimate. It has a 2.8-litre diesel, 4WD and removable hard-top. And it’s the only car here with four doors and five seats.

Rather join the landed gentry? There is no better way than with a Rolls-Royce. Its Phantom Drophead Coupé is as exclusive as they come, but what does £320,000-plus get you? A car that tips the scales at nearly three tonnes with a powerful 6.75-litre V12 and a hand-crafted interior is the answer...