The sun is shining and it can only mean one thing – it’s time to get the roof down! And what could be better than feeling cool with the wind in your hair as you cruise the streets. It’s the best type of air conditioning there is!
Today’s convertibles are more popular now than they have ever been – faster, flashier and most importantly – more affordable.
Unfortunately, we can’t afford even the “budget” supercar convertibles that Top Gear used to cruise around the empty roads of Spain in the latest episode (the Audi R8, Ferrari 458 Italia, McLaren 12C are just a little too rich for our tastes), but, there’s nothing like a great convertible to take every day driving to a whole new level of enjoyment.
So we’ve compiled a list of our favourites. Check it out and then fire up the engine. It’s a beautiful day outside for a road trip.
This dinky six-speed automatic two-door super-mini is compact enough to fit in almost any parking space and with the roof down it gives drivers a grand view of the blue sky. It features four-wheel ABS, first and second-row airbags, driveline traction control and low CO2 emissions.
Like all MINIs, this stylish Convertible is great to drive, while inside it feels like a BMW thanks to the extensive use of upmarket materials and a great driving position. All engines are relatively economical, but the Cooper S is our range pick thanks to its punchy performance and fun handling.
The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is a proper four-seat drop-top. Based on the new Golf, the convertible has a well-built cabin, is enjoyable to drive, cheap to run and has low CO2 emissions. The Cabriolet’s body flexes more than the hatchback’s, but it’s still a fun and desirable convertible.
This isn’t the only great convertible Audi has to offer, the A5 Cabriolet is a classy, comfortable and quick drive. Not only is the A5 great to look at, it also feels solid and responsive on the move, making it a great long distance cruiser. The 2.0 TDI is quick enough and returns impressive 59mpg economy – making it the pick of the range
The Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet has room for four people and is an excellent cruiser. It offers a fine range of engines and sportier looks while the ride is good. The boot is an awkward shape, but a decent size. Air-cap is Mercedes’ windscreen-mounted wind deflector system, which works brilliantly, though it does impact on the car’s looks slightly.
Given a slightly bigger budget, the Porsche Boxster would have come top of the list due to its mix of quality, desirability and driver enjoyment. The Boxster is a beautiful two-seater that is great to drive and voted WhatCar’s Sports Car of the Year for 2013. The only downside is the price. But you do get a nice badge…
This entry was posted in Top Car Choices on by Kevin Blackmore
Categories : Top Car Choices
