The best convertibles in the USA provide a more immersive driving experience than their coupe counterparts. While practicality can suffer due to stowage of the roof, the best convertible cars have the desirable image that many drivers seek. Some are simple, with manual fabric roofs and minimal equipment to keep the price down. Other 2022 convertibles are just as luxurious as hardtops, with electrically-powered roof designs that can be lowered or raised at the touch of a button. While few are cargo-haulers, there is no replacing the rush of the wind through your hair and the amplified sound of the engine.
Some cabrios offer a truly exhilarating drive, such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Porsche 718 Boxster. These top-rated options will suit those who value sharp handling and exceptional feedback. If you prefer more of a grand tourer, you could consider alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, another top convertible which the manufacturer quotes as having over 400 horsepower in the case of the AMG variant. Technology has evolved to a point where most modern roadsters are just as engaging, comfortable, and refined as their coupe counterparts. Above all, an open top offers the novelty of wind-in-your-hair motoring and the versatility to act as a coupe when required.
Shopping for automobiles isn’t what it used to be. Today’s saturated market and the plethora of brands demand that shoppers spend more time researching before signing on the dotted line. It’s no different when trying to draw up a list of the best drop tops. We’ve summarized some of the main points to take note of:
Even the newest convertible won’t suit everyone, but for the right shopper, it can be the ideal vehicle. If you often travel alone or with one other occupant, a drop top car could be a good fit for you. If you already have a large sedan or SUV for daily use, it could be the perfect weekend toy.
For those who live in warmer regions of the US, the ability to let the sunshine in simply adds to the fun. Higher-end options are engineered so well that the most discerning buyer wouldn’t be able to tell that they aren’t in a full-size luxury sedan.
As within any other segment, this body style has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. On the upside, cabrios tend to look more stylish than a coupe. Many are equipped with amenities like wind deflectors and neck warmers. However, they tend to be heavier, slower, and more expensive than coupes.
Based on our BuzzScore rankings, the best hardtop cabrio is the Porsche 911 Targa. It’s not cheap, but it does everything well. Some brilliant two-seaters include the 718 Boxster and BMW Z4 Roadster, the former being one of the highest-rated competitors. For those with especially deep pockets and who want to snap endless pictures of their pride and joy, there’s the stunning Ferrari Portofino. A leading all-wheel-drive cabriolet is the Mercedes-AMG S63. A great cabrio car that won’t break the bank is the Ford Mustang, followed closely by the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Chevrolet Camaro in our ratings. Hybrid dropheads are rare, but the Mercedes-AMG E53 is one such example.
Our latest in-depth reviews include upcoming 2023 models as they become available and older 2019 versions. These evaluations provide more information on each car, along with images, videos, and comparisons with key competitors.