Best 4-Seater Convertibles of 2022

Finding The Best 4-Seater Convertible Cars

Buying any new or used vehicle for sale requires you to compare key factors like power outputs, value for money, safety features, and reliability records. Over and above this, shortlisting the best 4-seater convertibles requires a more specific evaluation of aspects like roof design and how roomy the back seats actually are. You’ll also want to know whether the Jaguar or Porsche you have your eye on drives as well as its hardtop equivalent. Here’s what to look out for:

• Roof design: Do you really need a metal top or will a lighter fabric one do? Electric operation is convenient but is more expensive to maintain and also poses packaging complexities.
• Dynamics: A loss of rigidity is often the consequence of choosing a cabriolet. An extended test drive could help you identify if the compromise is worthwhile.
• Legroom: A rear seat doesn’t automatically mean you’ll get the spacious interior of a full-size sedan. Be sure to play the role of a rear passenger when conducting your test.
• Trunk: Does the roof impinge on cargo space too much for you to enjoy your cabriolet in winter?
• Price: Whether you’re buying a used example at under 20k or considering a six-figure luxury cabrio, you’ll likely be paying a premium over the hardtop derivative.

Commonalities of Convertible 4-Seaters

If all you wanted was a wind-in-your-hair sports car that entertains above all else, you’d get something like a two-seater Audi TT, Mazda MX-5, or a Jaguar F-Type. But a 4- or 5-seater is different - for starters, these cabriolets are generally lengthier to free up enough space for a second row. Unfortunately, this comes with the downside of added weight, so a more powerful engine is preferable in this application. With more weight to lug around than a hardtop, the economy could also dip.

What to Consider Before Buying

Not everyone has the luxury of being able to own two cars, where one fulfills a purpose that the other can’t. If a 2-door drop-top is to be your only mode of transport, it’s useful to know the positives and negatives of this type of vehicle, whether you’re using it for everyday commuting or weekend jaunts. If any of these points are a dealbreaker, you’re probably better off with a 4-5 seater sedan or even an SUV.

Pros

• No need to choose between top-down motoring and passengers
• More stylish than a 5-person sedan
• More storage capacity behind the driver
• As comfortable as a coupe with the top up

Cons

• More expensive than a regular hardtop
• Electric roof mechanisms are pricey to repair
• Many cabrios have poor rear legroom
• Construction generally leads to heavier weight

Top Four-seater Convertibles

What kind of makes and models could you expect to find in this segment? Well, the four-seater convertible body style tends to be dominated by luxury brands. Examples include the Mercedes S-Class, the Bentley Continental GT, and the BMW M8, although the latter isn’t the most spacious. There are a couple of more affordable alternatives, however, such as topless iterations of the Ford Mustang and Mini Cooper.

For more information about each model, you can refer to our reviews, including those for older 2019 and 2020 years. Here, we list each trim, along with pricing, ride/handling impressions, and comments on the interior layout. If you can’t decide between a four-seater cabrio or five-seater coupe, our assessments will get you closer to making an informed decision.

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