Used Volvo C70 Coupe Cabriolet 2006 - 2013 review

The Volvo C70 mixes and matches the best bits of both coupe and convertible models. The folding metal roof provides a closeted coupe environment when it's up, but you can drop the top at the push of button and enjoy the weather.

To call the C70 a four-seater is stretching the imagination because the back seats are big enough for children only, or small adults at a pinch. The boot is one of the biggest in this class when the roof is up, but, as soon as it's stowed, you get a small space that's tricky to load.

In order to accommodate the folding roof design, the C70 has piled on the pounds - it's one of the heaviest cars in its class. While this extra weight doesn't make it cumbersome or hard to drive, it's not as agile as used rivals such as the Volkswagen Eos, and the steering is short of feel. Think of it as a comfortable high-speed cruiser than a sharp, sporty number.

The weight of the C70 shows when it comes to fuel economy. The 2.4-litre petrol has an official average of 31.4mpg, but expect that to dip into the high 20s with real-world driving. The 2.5-litre petrol is only just behind at 31.0mpg, with the 2.0-litre and D5 diesels returning 46.3mpg and 38.7mpg respectively.

Only the diesels emit less than 200g/km of CO2, with the 2.0-litre at 161g/km and the D5 at 169g/km (193g/km as an automatic). Servicing costs are generally slightly lower than rivals, but insurance groups between group 28 - 35 means premiums may be steep. The C70 didn't sell as well as some rivals, and while that has protected residual values, they will slip over time.

The petrol models are generally cheaper, because many buyers look for a diesel C70 in the belief that they'll save money. This isn't necessarily the case: you'll need to do enough miles a year to justify the extra cost of diesel fuel and the increased purchase price.

The 2.4-litre petrol engine with 170bhp works well, but the 217bhp 2.5-litre version, with 217bhp, feels noticeably faster. The 2.4-litre D5 diesel with 178bhp (available as an auto only until '08) has plenty of low-down pull. In 2007 a 134bhp 2.0-litre diesel was introduced, but it feels a little weedy.

Sport editions come with alloys, electronic stability control, climate control and a CD multichanger. SE trim cars come with electrically adjustable leather seats while the SE Lux adds a few more goodies.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here