Beetle Cabrio Dark Flint TDI

Love it or loathe it, the Beetle Cabriolet certainly stands out. And with lots of standard kit for little extra outlay, the Dark Flint special edition represents great value. The diesel engine offers the best compromise between performance and economy, and added to the impressive build quality, this VW makes a strong all-round package.

There's a new Beetle on the way... but with its arrival at least 12 months away, VW is sprucing up the current Cabriolet with this - a special edition called Dark Flint. It gets unique exterior and interior details and colours plus more standard kit.

The drop-top Bug is already a distinctive shape, but the addition of exclusive paintwork and a contrasting red fabric hood adds further individuality. The standard 17-inch alloy wheels also feature red sections, which may not be to everyone's taste, but are certainly eye-catching.

Inside, the red theme continues with matching leather seats and trim, which coupled with the refreshingly simple dash layout gives the newcomer an attractive cabin. Folding the hood is straightforward thanks to its electric operation, and the inclusion of a single switch to raise or lower all four windows is a smart touch.

Equipment levels are generous. As well as the standard leather, the Dark Flint gets air-con, a wind deflector, front foglamps and heated seats. And rear parking sensors make up for the the fact that the car has poor visibility whether the hood is up or down.The Beetle Cabriolet is one of the few drop-tops available with a diesel engine, in this case the 1.9-litre TDI with 98bhp. Even with the roof folded, the noise from the unit rarely intrudes, and with plenty of torque at low revs, the Beetle is relaxing to drive.

The suspension gives a comfortable ride rather than sharp handling, as the car's underpinnings are based on the last-generation Golf. Keen drivers may not like the numb steering and soft brakes, but this Bug is best enjoyed at modest speeds with the roof down.