Given the heat-wave that's currently hitting the Western Cape this couldn't possibly have come at a better time, as Fiat introduces South Africa's least expensive cabriolet.
Say hello to the 500 1.2 Cabriolet, blowing your hair back for R175 000.
OK, it's parts-bin engineering, but it's a very clever mix-'n-match, starting with the standard 500 cabriolet bodyshell that's been around since March 2010.
Running gear comes from the entry-level 500 1.2 Pop, and the interior trim is a clever compilation of the most popular features from the Fiat 500 options catalogue (which would do justice to a German luxury sedan!).
Performance is less than stellar (that's what the just-released 500 Abarth is for) but the 500c 1.2 has all the right stuff for cruising Camps Bay (or Melrose Arch) in top-down style.
Fiat says the latest version of its Euro 4-compliant 1.2-litre engine is good for 51kW at 5500rpm and 102Nm at 3000rpm, while averaging 6.4 litres per 100km and flying just under the Pollution Police radar at 119g/km of CO2.
Fiat doesn't even quote performance figures; after all, stylish little Italian convertibles are for being seen in, aren't they? And this one looks the part with 15” alloy rims, chromed exterior door handles and body-colour mirrors with electronic adjustment and defrosting function.
Inside, you'll find power steering and windows, remote central locking, aircon, daytime running lights, a radio/CD with MP3 player and Blue&Me handsfree system, satellite controls on the steering wheel and a USB port for your favourite sound tracks.
Standard safety kit includes seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver's knee) and antilock braking with electronic brake-force distribution.
But a cabrio is always about its roof, isn't it? The 500c's shutter-style fabric top can be operated either by buttons near the ceiling light or by remote - and you can open it as far as the spoiler at any speed, or all the way if you're travelling at less than 60km/h
The 500 1.2 Cabriolet comes with a three-year or 100 000km warranty and five-year or 90 000km service plan; service intervals are 30 000km.