IF you are still suffering from winter blues, then Volkswagen could have the perfect remedy: a healthy dose of sunshine, thanks to the limited edition New Beetle Cabriolet Dark Flint.

Only 250 models will go on sale here, starting at £17,995 on the road for the entry 1.6-litre model.

With its highly distinctive dark flint metallic paint and complementary deep red trim, it should cheer up even the most icy demeanour.

Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this year, the Dark Flint's unusual colour scheme features a deep red roof joined by matching leather seats and trim -- including the gear knob, handbrake grip and door inserts -- plus deep red sections to the unique 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Dark Flint is also fitted with standard equipment that includes air conditioning, parking sensor, electric power roof, wind deflector, heated windscreen washer jets, front fog lights and heated leather seats.

The Dark Flint's extra equipment comes on top of the New Beetle Cabriolet's specification, which includes electric windows and mirrors, anti-lock brakes, electronic stabilisation programme, four airbags; CD player; and rain sensor with automatic dimming rear view mirror.

However, the Dark Flint also offers value for money, as its price premium over equivalent standard New Beetle Cabriolets is far less than the total cost of its extra equipment if ordered through the options list.

The New Beetle Cabriolet has twice won Convertible of the Year awards.

It is offered with a wide choice of engines, the following of which are available with the Dark Flint limited edition: 1.6-litre 102bhp, 2.0-litre 115bhp and 1.8-litre turbo 150bhp petrol units, plus an advanced 1.9-litre TDI 100bhp diesel. Five-speed manual gearboxes are fitted with all engines, while a six-speed automatic tiptronic is also offered on the 2.0-litre petrol version.

Dealers: Layerthorpe Ltd., Centurion Park, Clifton Moor, York (01904 479666); Des Winks (Cars), Pickering Road, West Snainton, Scarborough (01723 859447).

Updated: 10:21 Friday, April 15, 2005