Nissan has added a new convertible variant to the Micra range. Named the C+C, the new car features a folding hardtop roof (as is becoming the norm on cars in this niche) that stows away at the touch of a button in 22 seconds. The Micra C+C's roof differs from the others though in that its roof panel is made of glass, allowing an open top view out even with the roof in place. The C+C also differs from many of the other offerings on the market by offering rear seats. In reality these are probably only suitable for children or luggage, but at least they are there!

The C+C promises to be a good drive as well; we were very impressed by the dynamic abilities of the normal hatch we tested last year. Powered by 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines offering 87 and 109bhp respectively there should also be enough poke to extend the chassis' abilities and provide some fun. As you can see from our pictures, the C+C is lower than the hatch and longer; the extra length is all at the rear necessitated by the stowage of the roof above the boot.

The C+C will be built in Nissan's plant in Sunderland here in the UK, which is Europe's most productive car manufacturing facility. It goes on sale late this year with deliveries in time for Christmas, which may not be an ideal time to launch a convertible, but will mean the car is established come next summer. Watch out in the Nissan section of the Road Tests page for our review of the Micra C+C early in 2006.

Dave Jenkins - 29 Jun 2005