What’s new: Volvo’s new 2.0-litre diesel engine has found its way into the Swedish firm’s drop-top offering – the C70. The lower-powered 136PS diesel comes in below the existing 180PS D5.

Excellent: Roof up or down, the C70 is still among the more stylish metal-roof cabrios, prettier than the BMW?3-series, and with a tin-top where the Audi A4 Cabriolet has a canvas roof.

Good: Good economy and emissions (average 46.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 161g/km) from the 2.0-litre make running costs manageable for drivers looking for a perk car. Refinement is without serious criticism.

Average: The cost per mile figure of 36.2p is higher than the Audi A4 2.0 TDI’s 32.9p thanks to better residuals for the German brand.

Poor: The interior of our car looked like an Ikea showroom due to excessive light wood. The P11D of £27,805 puts the C70 directly against the popular Audi A4 Cabrio.

Verdict: Good engine and decent running costs mark out the new 2.0D as pick of the C70 range.