Quick Facts: Coupe offers hard top to popular convertible. Roof panel above seats is removable. Most structural and powertrain components carry over from convertible. Solstice coupe will be available in early 2009.

Pontiac's zippy Solstice roadster is getting something new for 2009: a hard-top roof.

The Solstice has been popular as a convertible roadster. Now, starting in early 2009, buyers will be able to choose the new Solstice coupe, which features a hard top and hatchback.

The roof panel of the hard top is removable to let in more light and air. It can be stored in the cargo area.

Engineers on the project said they only had to make minor structural changes to the Solstice to create the coupe, since the original car was designed as a convertible.

Many of the body panels are the same on the coupe and the convertible, and there are no changes to the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that powers both cars.