ALL Fiat 500s are neat and funky with simple understated styling that really works, but the 500C convertible is a step up just because of the roll back roof.

I've just driven the 900cc TwinAir turbo two-cylinder and it's a hoot, with more performance than most people would believe.

Even in beige with white and chrome wheel covers it looks great - and it must be the only beige car that does so.

The miniscule engine is smooth, peppy and willing as long as it's above 1,500 revs, but it is also quite noisy much of the time.

The soft top folds back electrically in a concertina shape, leaving the side windows and door frames in place, but if it's taken down to its lowest point, it blocks rearward vision.

Road holding and handling are brilliant, it's very easy to park and the boot is still a reasonable size.

Drive is through a five-speed gearbox and the clutch is light, but the only comfortable place for the left foot is underneath it. All 500s come with standard stop/start.

The lovely interior is really funky with a body colour dash and off-white steering wheel, instrument surrounds and controls. These are matched by off-white piping and tops to the seats.

You can get three people in easily, four at a pinch, and the neat binnacle has tacho inside speedo with fuel gauge and warning lights inside that. Brilliant.