There's something uniquely joyful about driving a convertible. Whether you're cruising along a coastal road with the roof down or simply making the most of a rare sunny afternoon, a drop-top transforms even the most mundane journey into something genuinely memorable. From affordable two-seater roadsters to opulent grand tourers, the convertible market offers something for every taste and budget.
The good news is that whether you're buying new or picking up a used bargain, there's never been a better selection of convertibles to choose from. Lightweight sports cars like the Mazda MX-5 deliver pure driving thrills without the hefty price tag, while premium options from BMW, Porsche and Bentley add a generous dose of luxury to the open-air experience. We've rounded up the very best convertibles you can buy right now, covering everything from stylish city cars to full-blown supercars, to help you find the perfect roof-down companion.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
Best New and Used Convertibles 2026
- 2009-2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- 2026 BMW 4 Series
- 2012-2019 Audi A3
- 2026 MINI Mini
- 2026 Porsche Boxster 718
- 2026 Mazda MX-5
- 2026 Porsche 911
- 2026 Fiat 500
- 2026 Bentley Continental
- 2016-2024 Audi R8
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| A great all-rounder that does most things well |
The entry-level diesels are weak |
| The estate is fantastically practical |
A BMW 5 Series is more exciting to drive |
| Most versions are comfortable and refined |
Repairs can be very costly |
If you're after a premium four-seat convertible that doesn't skimp on comfort or class, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet from this era is a superb choice. It's supremely refined and easy to drive, with a high-quality cabin that's built to the standards Mercedes is famous for. While a convertible always involves some compromise, the E-Class is impressively roomy for its type, making it a genuinely usable four-seater for those who want to share the open-air experience.
While the majority of E-Classes on the used market are diesels, the petrol engines are a better fit for a convertible. The 181bhp E200 CGI is a good starting point, but the 201bhp E250 CGI offers a bit more punch. For a truly effortless cruise, the V6-powered E350 CGI is the one to go for, while the bombastic E63 AMG models offer supercar-like performance with the roof down. Whichever you choose, you're getting a car that's perfect for long-distance touring, roof up or down.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For those who value comfort and refinement, the mk4 E-Class has much to recommend it over rivals. Though understated, its styling still has a prestigious quality to it, and the cabin is remarkably spacious and boasts a reassuring solidity." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Mercedes-Benz E-Class review
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CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Exceptionally good to drive, even by BMW's high standards |
Controversial looks, in particular the grille |
| Superb interior quality |
Convertible sacrifices some practicality |
| Brilliant infotainment system |
Adaptive suspension costs extra |
The 4 Series Convertible is a real driver's car, even with the roof chopped off. While it loses a little of the Coupe's pin-sharp handling due to the extra strengthening needed, it's still one of the best-handling four-seat drop-tops you can buy. BMW switched from a folding metal hard-top on the old model to a fabric roof for this one, which saves weight and looks classier. It does mean a smidge more wind noise on the motorway, but it's never intrusive. You do sacrifice a little boot space for the folding roof mechanism, but it's still pretty spacious for a convertible.
Inside, the quality is exactly what you'd expect from a premium BMW – top-notch materials and the brilliant iDrive infotainment system, which remains one of the easiest to use. There's a great range of engines, too. The entry-level 420i petrol offers plenty of punch, while the 430i uses a more powerful 2.0-litre engine with 249bhp, even if you can only order new cars with the former. For serious performance, the M440i with its legendary 3.0-litre straight-six engine is an absolute peach.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Regardless of power output, the 4 Series is a truly exceptional driving machine. With its engaging performance, excellent refinement, and one of the most intuitive infotainment systems in motoring, it's a joy to own and drive on a daily basis." - Pete Tullin, contributor
Read our full BMW 4 Series review
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| The interior is high-quality, and practical if you choose the five-door Sportback |
More expensive to buy than mainstream cars with similar abilities |
| Excellent fuel economy from the diesel-engined models |
S line versions have a firm ride |
| The RS3 has serious performance credentials |
Performance models are pricey to run |
For those wanting a premium drop-top experience without breaking the bank, the Audi A3 Cabriolet is a fantastic choice. It shares the same high-quality, beautifully finished interior as its hatchback and saloon siblings, and the fabric roof is exceptionally well-insulated, making it a quiet and refined cruiser all year round. The engine range is vast, but the 1.4-litre and later 1.5-litre TFSI petrol engines are sweet spots, offering a great blend of punchy performance and impressive fuel economy, perfect for those sunny top-down drives. For more poke, the 2.0-litre TFSI with 187bhp is a seriously quick and capable option.
While you sacrifice the boot space of the hatchback – a common compromise for convertibles – there's still enough room for a weekend away for two. Where the A3 Cabriolet really shines is in its driving manners. It's a comfortable and composed car that soaks up bumps well, making it an ideal long-distance tourer. Yet, the handling is also crisp and engaging enough to be enjoyable on a twisty B-road, giving you the best of both worlds. It's a classy, understated and desirable convertible that oozes quality from every angle.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Whether you go for the super-fast RS3, an entry-level A3 1.0 TFSI, or anything in between, you'll have yourself an understated, classy vehicle that oozes quality." - Rebecca Jackson, contributor
Read our full Audi A3 review
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Lively and entertaining to drive |
The Convertible has a small boot |
| The EV is ideal around town |
Ungainly looks if you choose the five-door |
| John Cooper Works GP cars are very quick |
More powerful models can wear out tyres quickly |
The MINI has long been the go-to choice for anyone wanting a small car that's big on fun, and the Convertible version adds open-top thrills to the mix. The powered fabric roof drops in just 18 seconds, letting you make the most of any sunny spell. True to its heritage, the MINI Convertible delivers that famous go-kart-like agility, with quick steering and a lively chassis that makes even a trip to the shops feel like an event. It's a car that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
While the standard Cooper model offers plenty of pep, those after more performance should look to the discontinued Cooper S with its 176bhp engine, or the even hotter 228bhp John Cooper Works version. These models really amplify the fun factor without sacrificing the MINI's premium feel and stylish interior. Of course, there are compromises for choosing the drop-top; the boot is on the small side, so you'll need to pack light for any weekend getaways. But for sheer wind-in-the-hair enjoyment, it's a trade-off many will be happy to make.
The CarGurus Verdict: "MINI's designers and engineers have worked hard to maintain the lively, entertaining handling characteristics that have set all versions of the MINI apart. Few cars can truly be described as icons, but the MINI is one." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full MINI Mini review
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 41.6%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Exceptionally enjoyable to drive |
Four-cylinder engines sound bland |
| Practical enough to use every day |
Tyres and brakes will be expensive to replace |
| Roof-down thrills without compromising the driving experience |
Lacks the rear seats of a 911 |
The Porsche 718 Boxster is, for many, the definitive two-seater convertible. It steers beautifully, has balance to spare, and is engaging and rewarding in the finest Porsche tradition. In fact, some might argue it's even more fun to drive than the legendary and far more expensive 911. The fabric roof is a work of art, opening or closing in just nine seconds at speeds of up to 30mph, letting you make the most of any sudden burst of British sunshine without missing a beat.
While practicality isn't usually a top priority for convertible buyers, the Boxster surprises here. Thanks to its mid-engine layout, it has both a 122-litre boot at the rear and a useful 150-litre 'frunk' at the front, giving you a combined 272 litres of luggage space. The biggest decision for buyers will be the engine. While the standard turbocharged four-cylinders are potent, many enthusiasts seek out the GTS 4.0 model, which brought back the glorious, naturally-aspirated six-cylinder engine and its spine-tingling soundtrack.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Engines aside, the 718 Boxster is a near-peerless roadster. It is exquisite to drive with perhaps the best sports car chassis on sale today, while the drop-top roof makes it more enjoyable more of the time than its fixed-roof stablemate, the 718 Cayman." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Porsche Boxster 718 review
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CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.8%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Irresistibly fun to drive |
A bit cramped for tall drivers |
| Extremely reliable |
Early cars have less safety kit than later models |
| Affordable to buy and run for a sports car |
The boot is small |
The Mazda MX-5 is the world's best-selling roadster for a reason: it's pure, unadulterated fun. Its lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive setup make for an incredibly agile and engaging driving experience. You get a choice of two lively petrol engines: a 1.5-litre with 130bhp or a more potent 2.0-litre that was updated in 2018 to produce 181bhp. Both are paired with a wonderfully slick six-speed manual gearbox that makes every gear change a joy. The best part? The manual soft-top roof is a doddle to drop, meaning you can go from enclosed coupe to open-air roadster in just a few seconds.
Of course, a two-seater sports car comes with compromises. The cabin is snug, so taller drivers should definitely try before they buy, and the 130-litre boot requires some creative packing. But what the MX-5 lacks in practicality, it more than makes up for in affordability. It's surprisingly cheap to run, with many owners reporting over 40mpg, and its reliability is legendary. It's a sports car that delivers maximum smiles per mile without the scary running costs, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for an accessible and thrilling convertible experience.
The CarGurus Verdict: "If you want a two-seater sports car that you can enjoy immensely on a daily basis without spending a fortune to buy and run it, the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 has much to offer. It's far faster than its specification suggests and is rewarding for drivers of all skill levels." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Mazda MX-5 review
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 25.5%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Hugely enjoyable to drive |
Expensive to fuel |
| Easy to live with everyday |
High insurance costs |
| Breadth of choice that rivals can't match |
Some purists complain that most of the engine range is now turbocharged |
The Porsche 911 has long been the benchmark sports car, and the convertible versions are no exception. Buyers can choose between the classic 911 Cabriolet with its fabric roof, or the achingly cool Targa, which features a mesmerisingly complex folding hardtop panel. Whichever you pick, you get the same scintillating performance and pin-sharp handling the 911 is famous for. Even the entry-level Carrera, with its twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, delivers pace that will embarrass much more exotic machinery, all while letting the sunshine in.
For a high-performance convertible, the 911 is surprisingly usable. Its party trick is a 2+2 seating layout, meaning you can bring small children along for the ride – a rare treat in this class. The nose-mounted boot offers 135 litres of space, enough for a weekend away, and the cabin is a masterclass in quality and ergonomic design. With a slick infotainment system and a surprisingly comfortable ride, the 911 Cabriolet or Targa is a convertible you could genuinely use every day, not just on special occasions.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There's a reason that the Porsche 911 Carrera is such an iconic, successful sports car, and that's simply because it's so good. It's not so singular in its focus that it's not able to be used as a daily driver, and the spacious cabin – for a sports car at least – makes it a practical choice." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Porsche 911 review
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.8%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Comfortable ride |
Awkward pedal position |
| Feels special throughout |
Cramped in the back |
| Easy to drive |
Engine runs out of puff quickly |
The Fiat 500 has always been about style, and the convertible version, the 500c, doubles down on this. It's less about outright practicality and more about enjoying the drive with the wind in your hair. While the review data is for the new hybrid hatchback, the essence of the 500c remains: a chic, city-friendly drop-top that turns heads. The fabric roof peels back electrically, giving you that open-air feeling without sacrificing the car's iconic silhouette. It's the perfect companion for sunny city drives and coastal cruises.
The 1.0-litre mild-hybrid engine produces a modest 64bhp, which is perfectly suited for nipping through urban streets. It's not a performance car, but its cheerful nature and easy-to-drive character make every journey enjoyable. Not forgetting the 500e Cabrio if you want to go full electric. The ride is surprisingly comfortable for a small car, soaking up city bumps well. As you'd expect, practicality isn't its strongest suit. The boot, at 183 litres, is tiny even by city car standards, and the rear seats are best reserved for short trips or extra luggage. But let's be honest, you don't buy a 500c for its load-lugging ability; you buy it for the sheer joy and style it brings to every drive.
The CarGurus Verdict: "If you're looking for something fun to cut a dash in as you flit from shopping trip to lunch date, you'll fall in love with the 500 pretty quickly. You'll struggle to find anything else for the price that'll do the job with this much style." - Alex Robbins, senior car reviewer
Read our full Fiat 500 review
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.2%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| A huge advance over its predecessor |
Such class and quality come at a price |
| Amazing blend of agility and continent-crossing comfort |
Extremely high running costs |
| Opulent interior is truly luxurious |
A Ferrari 812 Superfast is more exciting to drive |
The Bentley Continental GT is available as a coupe or, more fitting for this list, as the GTC convertible with a folding fabric hood. Whichever you choose, you get one of the most opulently appointed cabins in the business, with exquisite wood veneers, supple leathers, and a level of fit and finish that few can match. Performance is, as you'd expect, monumental. Buyers can choose between a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 or the mighty 6.0-litre W12, which produces 626bhp and can propel this luxurious drop-top to a top speed of 207mph.
For a car in this class, the Continental is surprisingly practical. The boot offers 358 litres of space, which is comparable to a family hatchback and more than enough for a weekend getaway. Thanks to underpinnings shared with the Porsche Panamera, the latest Continental is also far more agile and responsive than its predecessor. It blends this newfound athleticism with a supremely comfortable ride, thanks to standard air suspension, making it a brilliant car for crossing continents with the roof down, soaking up the sun.
The CarGurus Verdict: "If you're looking for the most rounded grand tourer on sale today, you've found it. The Bentley is the undisputed master at balancing sharp handling with luxurious long-distance comfort." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Bentley Continental review
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CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 0.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 27.5%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.8 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Tremendous V10 engine delivers sound and fury |
Lacks the exotic appeal of a Ferrari or Lamborghini |
| Choice of coupe and cabrio body styles |
No manual gearbox option |
| Thrilling to drive, yet easy to live with |
High running costs |
While the Audi R8 is a phenomenal supercar in coupe form, it's the drop-top Spyder version that truly steals the show for convertible lovers. The fabric roof folds away to expose you to the elements and, more importantly, to the glorious noise from the mid-mounted 5.2-litre V10 engine. It's a spine-tingling mechanical symphony that makes every drive an event, delivering an unfiltered, open-air experience that few rivals can match for sheer auditory drama.
Don't think that lopping the roof off has compromised the R8's incredible ability, either. Thanks to its super-stiff chassis, the Spyder handles with the same epic grip and sure-footedness as the coupe, making it both thrilling on a B-road and surprisingly easy to drive around town. You will have to pack light, as the folding roof mechanism eats into the already limited luggage space, but that's a small price to pay for a car that delivers this much performance and everyday usability with the added joy of top-down motoring.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Judged by any measure, the R8 is a truly exceptional piece of engineering, regardless of whether you're drawn to the slinky Coupe or sunseeker Spyder. Both offer a truly engaging driving experience, underpinned by staggering performance and heralded by one of the most evocative soundtracks in motoring." - Pete Tullin, contributor
Read our full Audi R8 review
FAQ
What is the best convertible to buy in the UK?
This really depends what you're looking for. As a two-seater sports car, a Porsche Boxster or Mazda MX-5 take some beating. As a luxurious GT, a Bentley Continental GTC is fantastic. Then there are four-seater options such as the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 4 Series, or city cars like the Fiat 500C. The good news is, you're not short of choice.
Are convertibles practical enough for everyday use?
Many modern convertibles are surprisingly practical for daily driving. Cars like the BMW 4 Series and Audi A3 Cabriolet offer four seats and decent boot space, while the Porsche 718 Boxster provides a combined 272 litres of luggage room thanks to its front and rear boots. Even the Bentley Continental GTC manages 358 litres, rivalling some family hatchbacks. The key compromises tend to be slightly less boot space than their hard-top equivalents and, in some cases, a touch more wind noise at motorway speeds.
What is the cheapest convertible to run?
The Mazda MX-5 stands out as the most affordable convertible to own and operate. Many owners report fuel economy of over 40mpg, and the car has a legendary reputation for reliability, keeping maintenance costs low. The Fiat 500c is another budget-friendly option, with its frugal 1.0-litre mild-hybrid engine well suited to urban driving. Both cars also benefit from relatively low insurance and road tax costs compared to premium alternatives.
Is a soft-top or hard-top convertible better?
Most modern convertibles, including the BMW 4 Series, Porsche 718 Boxster and Mazda MX-5, use fabric soft-tops. These are lighter, take up less boot space when folded, and tend to look more elegant. Modern fabric roofs are also well-insulated, so wind noise and thermal insulation are much improved over older designs. Hard-tops, like the Porsche 911 Targa's folding panel, offer a slightly more secure feel but add weight and complexity. For most buyers, a quality soft-top is the better all-round choice.
Which convertible is best for tall drivers?
Taller drivers should consider the BMW 4 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet or Audi A3 Cabriolet, all of which offer generous headroom and legroom in the front. The Mazda MX-5, while brilliant to drive, has a notably snug cabin that can feel cramped for those over six feet tall, so it's worth trying one for size before committing. The Porsche 718 Boxster also offers a surprisingly accommodating cockpit for a two-seater sports car.
Do convertibles hold their value well?
Convertibles can hold their value very well, particularly desirable models from premium brands. The Porsche 718 Boxster and Porsche 911 Cabriolet are known for strong residual values, as is the Mazda MX-5 thanks to its enduring popularity and limited supply of used examples. Our data shows that a high percentage of good and great deals are available across the models in this guide, with the Boxster 718 leading the way, suggesting savvy buyers can still find excellent value on the used market.
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To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in April 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
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