THERE is only one truly four seat convertible on the market at under £24,000 and that's the Vauxhall Cascada.

And even with the electric roof stowed there is still reasonable space in the boot.

The Golf soft top is the same price, but doesn't offer the same interior space or boot, and the Cascada is much better looking.

I drove the 1.4 turbo petrol with a manual six-speed gearbox and really enjoyed it. The car is quite heavy, in the way of all convertibles, so performance is never startling.

But the willing and very smooth engine revs beautifully and has enough verve for plenty of fun.

The handling matches that verve, giving great agility through the corners and the road holding is excellent, with very strong grip.

The hood takes just a few moments to put up or down at the touch of a button, and when there are only two travelling, the optional wind deflector makes the cabin a cocoon of warmth with it down, even on a cold day.

Seat adjustment is excellent for all sizes of driver and the level of standard equipment is way better than some other manufacturers.

: VW Golf