Also driven: BMW M3 Convertible

The M3 Convertible has it all – a comfortable four-seater, folding retractable hard top, a 420bhp V8 engine and chassis built for enjoyment.

Like all M3s before it, it combines a practical daily runabout with road-ripping abilities when you want to use them.

It is also more fuel and emissions efficient than the previous model, thanks to a lighter yet larger capacity engine.

It had one odd quirk though - until the M button was pressed, the car suffered an annoying hesitation when slowing for roundabouts and then accelerating once the coast was clear.

But once in M mode, owners won’t want to set it back to normal, as it becomes as responsive, urgent and communicative as any driving enthusiast could want.

• Engine: 4.0-litre V8
• Price: £54,760