The spy shots in the...

The spy shots in the latest issue show the new coupнѓ©-cabriolet model on test - and they reveal just how well built and precise the folding metal hood is going to be.

Tell-tale shutlines at the top of the B-pillar and on the roof near the rear deck are the points at which the hard-top will split and stow in the boot. It"ll be a case of now you CC it, now you don"t - as with all coupнѓ©-cabrios, the 3-Series has a large bootlid to make room for the top when it"s down.

Official details are still under wraps, but it"s thought the newcomer will go on sale alongside a conventional fabric-roofed convertible, as well as a two-door coupнѓ©. Although the latter will hold most appeal for driving enthusiasts, the CC variant is still being developed to ensure it has sufficient rigidity to offer good handling.

The disguise on this prototype also leads us to believe that the CC will have a more aggressive look to differentiate it from the 3-Series saloon. Inside, the dashboard will be carried over from the four-door, but trim levels are likely to be more luxurious. The roof itself will be fully electric, with no manual levers to operate. The BMW coupнѓ©-cabrio has no current rivals in the compact executive class, but it will be in competition with Volvo"s next-generation C70, which goes on sale in February. Available with both petrol and diesel power, the 3-Series CC isn"t expected to arrive until 2007.