My kids and I were thrilled at the prospect of test-driving the 2011 Volvo C70. When the redesigned hardtop convertible coupe arrived at our house, we immediately jumped in it, put the top down and went for a ride to a restaurant for lunch. After driving a few blocks, the kids started complaining about the sun. They wanted the C70's top up before we even got to our lunch spot. However, that was all the complaining they ever did in this car, and for that I was glad because the C70 has me dreaming of owning one.

The kids and I learned the hard way that blazing midday heat causes convertibles to become nocturnal. The C70's hardtop makes it easy to hide from the punishing sun. The power hardtop goes up in about 30 seconds. This enables the driver and rider to cover up and cool down during the hottest part of the day and then re-emerge later with no hassle whatsoever. The kids and I used a little more discretion with the hardtop and all was well.

The C70's turbo engine is zippy. It went as fast as I wanted it to, and I never felt like it would get away from me. The braking is responsive in this front-wheel-drive car. The C70 seems to be made for just enjoying the open road, not taking hot laps at the track. And that's alright with this girl.

I'll admit I was initially surprised by the $46,550 price tag of my test car, but then I started doing the math. The C70's base price is $39,950. If I don't get the fancy stereo, which is part of the Multimedia Package ($2,600), and the Dynamic Package ($1,000), it's looking a bit more affordable. Considering all of the safety gear and the engineering marvel that is the retractable hardtop, the sticker shock wore off. Once I decided that my kids don't need clothes or a college education, the reluctance became acceptance and quickly after that, desire.

• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety