THE eagerly-awaited Daihatsu Copen sportscar, with its Mercedes SLK-like electric folding roof, has finally arrived.

For just £12,995 on-the-road, standard equipment includes the electric folding metal hardtop, power steering, twin airbags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, air conditioning and electric windows and door mirrors.

The car (pictured) also boasts remote keyless entry, central locking, alloy wheels, front fog lamps, dual exhaust pipes and a radio/CD player.

The news gets even better as the 660cc turbocharged Copen now has more power and improved economy following factory modifications to allow it to comply with European Whole Vehicle Type Approval.

Power rises from the Japanese K-Car restriction of 64PS to 68PS at only 6,000rpm. This gives a 106mph top speed and nought to 62mph time of 11.7 seconds - virtually identical to the Ford Streetka.

Meanwhile, thanks to its light weight (823kg), raised gearing and highly efficient four-cylinder, twin-overhead camshaft engine, the Copen gives impressive fuel economy and low emissions.

For example, urban/extra urban and combined returns are 35.8/50.4 and 44.1mpg, compared with the Ford's 26.6/44.1 and 35.8 mpg. The Copen's CO2 figure is 151g/km against the StreetKa's 189g/km - meaning a company car tax liability of 16 per cent versus 23 per cent for 2004-2005.

However, many buyers will be more enchanted by the Copen's cute looks. Or, for others, its cool exclusivity will clinch it as annual sales are expected to be less than 1,500 units.

But, for the enthusiasts, it will be the Copen's agile, involving handling that seduces them.