It is said, "Bad news is best delivered at the earliest opportunity and in the greatest possible detail." That's where our story begins.

Pontiac first teased the notion of a coupe version of its Solstice roadster concept at the Detroit auto show in 2002. Slow-forward seven years and it's finally here, in naturally aspirated and turbocharged, 260-horsepower GXP form. That original 2002 design study was a fixed roof hatchback, somewhat similar to a BMW {{{Z4}}} coupe. On its way to production, the Solstice coupe grew a removable roof section in place of the convertible top.

Production Solstice coupe retains the ethos of the concept and still looks fresh seven years later.

On the surface, it seems nice of the GM design folks to add the option of open-air motoring. The removable panel is sturdy, uses the same front latching points as the soft top, is framed in lightweight magnesium and nicely finished, and weighs just 31 pounds. But when removed, it doesn't fit in the back of the car. So, you can't take it with you to protect against a sudden rain squall-or in case you wish to leave and secure the cabin.

"We've got the answer," counters GM (metaphorically, at least). "Just install the removable soft top!" It comes in a bag, and it does fit in the Solstice's cargo area-in unassembled form. To use it, you must first put the three pieces together. The process is no biggy, but it takes a few minutes and might break a fingernail or two the first time you do so. This Erector Set-style component is light weight and has enough structure for high-speed running. But when you want to remove and stow it, you have to take it apart. Here's real the kicker: All this "convenience" costs an additional $1100. In case you'd like a bag to protect the hardtop you were forced to leave at home? That'll be $80 more.

Article key :  Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe, Pontiac Solstice GXP, Pontiac, New Car, GXP Coupe, Solstice GXP Coupe, 2009, 2010