SOME steel-roofed coupe/cabriolets look awful with the roof up and not much better with it down.

But Volkswagen's Eos proved that it was possible for one to be a stylish shape either way. It's the best looking CC on the market with the roof up and even better with it stowed away in the boot.

But like all other CCs, don't forget that a large proportion of the boot space disappears when the roof's down.

The Eos has a complicated five piece roof and this means visibility is very good, but also results in more interior space than most competitors and excellent headroom.

There's very good rear legroom - unusually for a CC - and this means that two adults can sit comfortably in the back.

Earlier cars had a wide petrol engine choice from a slowish 1.6 with 115bhp through a 2.0-litre with 150 or 197bhp to a 3.2 V6 with 250bhp.

But latterly, until production finished in 2014, there was just one 1.4 turbo with either 120 or 157bhp.

The venerable VW group 2.0-litre turbo diesel with 140bhp was the only alternative and it was given the Bluemotion tag, thanks to much improved economy of 58mpg and emissions down to 125g/km.

Body rigidity with the roof down is excellent, so there's none of the body flexing so obvious in other open cars, and it rarely feels like you're driving a convertible.

This means top notch handling and road holding through the corners, helped by the marvellous VW power steering. The ride is good too and is only upset by deep potholes.

A large rear screen means visibility, often a problem with convertibles, is good, and there's not too much buffeting from the passing air with the roof down.

The heater is more than man enough to keep those in the front warm with the roof open on chilly days - as long as you wear good gloves, a scarf and a hat.

Mid-range SE spec gives you alloys, traction control, front and rear electric windows, air conditioning, parking sensors and sports seats.

All have steering wheel reach and rake, height adjustable driver's seat, remote locking, electric heated mirrors and an alarm.

Pay about £10,700 for a '12 12-reg 2.0TDI SE, or £13,700 for a '14 14-reg Bluemotion Sport.