The roadster's seats are firm, supportive and comfortable, mind you, and while they integrate nifty little storage compartments into their

The roadster's seats are firm, supportive and comfortable, and while they integrate nifty little storage compartments into their backsides, they could use a little more lateral support. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

backsides, they could use a little more lateral support. Pontiac will offer sportier versions of the Solstice which should address this issue, plus will most likely offer a six-speed manual transmission, a version of GM's turbocharged Ecotec four-cylinder if not a small-block V8 (OK, that last item is pure speculation "substantiated" by the Internet message board rumour mill, but it's fun to dream), racier suspension tuning and more aggressive wheel and tire options - although I can't see any reason why the car's standard 18-inch alloy rims and low-profile shoes wouldn't suffice.

Other standard Solstice features include a leather-wrapped shift knob, a rake adjustable steering wheel, a glass rear

Some standard Solstice features include a leather-wrapped shift knob, a rake adjustable steering wheel, a glass rear window with integrated defogger, twin dual-stage frontal airbags, and a decent six-speaker AM/FM/single-CD audio system. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

window with integrated defogger, twin dual-stage frontal airbags, a decent six-speaker AM/FM/single-CD audio system, and three cupholders - which make about as much sense as the eight golf bags that can fit into a five-passenger Ford Five Hundred's trunk.

Optional are three trim packages, the first being the Power Package, which as the name implies adds power locks, mirrors and windows, plus remote keyless entry. A Convenience Package ups the ante with cruise control, a handy driver information centre, and fog lamps. And for the open-top hedonists in the crowd, a Premium Package includes leather seating surfaces, in either Ebony or Steel/Sand two-tone, plus a leather-wrapped steering wheel to match that previously mentioned hide covered shift knob, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.