The 2011 VW Eos is a retractable hard top convertible that appeals to buyers looking for a convertible without the typical sports car affectations with good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, a luxurious interior and attractive styling. With a starting price of $32,940, the Eos is definitely not cheap, but buyers looking for a fun car for cruising in the summer that is also capable and comfortable in the winter (with front-wheel-drive and a hard top) can do a lot worse.

The 2011 Volkswagen Eos‘ biggest selling point is its retractable hard top that turns the car from a coupe to a convertible. The Eos’ hard top makes it a functional vehicle even in cold weather climates, where the lack of insulation in typical cloth convertible tops can make them undesirable. The hard top also features a tilting, sliding sunroof for those times you just want a little bit of sun.

The 2011 Eos comes with a touch screen navigation and stereo with steering wheel mounted controls, Bluetooth connectivity, heated leather seats and an ultrasonic parking warning system that beeps if the Eos gets close to an object.

The 2011 VW Eos is powered by a 200-hp, 2.0-liter direct-injected, turbocharged engine and your choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed DSG automatic with paddle shifters. The Eos is rated at 21-mpg city and 31-mpg highway.

Main competition for the Eos will come from the Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring, which is also a hard top convertible, but only has seating for two. The Miata also has a 42-hp deficit compared to the Eos, but weighs almost 800 lbs less, so performance won’t be a huge factor in a buyer’s decision. The 2011 Miata is rear-wheel-drive, so driving purists will probably prefer it, while drivers who deal with snow regularly will probably want the front-drive Eos.