WHEN it comes to enjoying wind-in-the-hair motoring, it seems everyone is getting in on the act these days.

From Audi to Bentley and Volkswagen to Volvo, just about  every manufacturer offers at least one convertible option somewhere within their range.

And while there are still some car makers who religiously stick to more traditional soft tops, more and more are now going down the road of folding tin-tops.

German premium brand BMW went down this route when they introduced an electrically-operated folding metal roof in place of a canvas top in their current Z4.

This feature turned their two-seater into something of a Jekyll and Hyde character, for roof up it is a stunning sports coupé, while at the touch of a button it changes into an open sports car which is about as good as it can get.

On its introduction in 2009, three six-cylinder petrol engines were set aside for the Z4 range: a 2.5-litre 200bhp offering and two three-litre units producing either 255 or 306bhp.

It was the range-topping, twin-turbocharged 35i model, complete with optional seven-speed semi-automatic gearbox I had the good fortune to get to grips with while the weather was going through a nice, warm spell.

With the 2009 International Engine of the Year honed under the bonnet, the Z4 proved to be a truly fabulous travelling companion. 

Pumping out 306 wild horses at 5,800rpm, the BMW could power its way from standing to 62mph in just a tad over five seconds and it could keep on powering on until the electronic speed limiter kicked in at 155mph.

It produced 400Nm of torque from a low 1,300rpm for effortless acceleration, yet returned a combined fuel consumption figure in excess of 30mpg.

Hood down, climate control turned up a little to keep any chill at bay, it doesn't get much better than to be behind the wheel of a Z4.

A blast down the motorway showed just how sophisticated this car is. There was surprisingly little road or wind noise to spoil things when the windows were up, while there was also little wind buffering to make things uncomfortable.

Out on the secondary roads the Z4 also handled a dream, with masses of grip giving a real sense of security.

But what really impressed is that everything about the car screams class. Sumptuous figure-hugging cream leather seats and door panels were the order of the day, while contrasting black leather covered just about every other interior surface.

What little plastics there were on show were also top notch, as were the switches, audio controls and display dials.

As for safety and comfort, the Beemer is lavishly equipped. Dynamic stability control and front and side airbags help protect occupants, while adaptive suspension, including electronically-controlled dampers which can lower the ride height by up to 10mm, offered the choice of either a sporty or a more relaxed driving mode.

And if you're interested, the boot of the BMW is large enough to stow a set of golf clubs... or if you find a model with the optional through-loading system between the seats, you'll even get in a second set.

Expect to pay between £12,765 and £16,685 for a 2009, 09-plate version and between £14,640 and £18,695 for a year newer 2010 model, something of a snip considering its original launch price was in excess of £40,000.