As summer rolls in, car lovers everywhere start dreaming about hitting the road with the wind in their hair. Yes—we’re talking about convertibles!
Granted, with SUVs dominating the sales charts, the convertible market is no longer what it once was. Still, there are plenty of models to choose from, ranging from the fun and affordable to luxurious and crazy expensive, meaning there’s a new drop-top out there to suit most budgets.
Mazda MX-5 Miata — Starting MSRP: $29,830
Let’s be honest, we all knew the Mazda MX-5 Miata would be here, as it’s one of the most recognizable cars ever made. It holds the Guinness World Records title as the world’s best-selling two-seater sports car for years already, and currently, it doesn’t have any direct competitors.
Currently in its fourth generation, Mazda has refined the formula since the first Miata debuted in 1989. That formula is as simple as it’s genius: take some inspiration from the classic British sports cars from the 1960s and 1970s and add some legendary Japanese reliability. No driving enthusiast in their right mind can turn down an open-top car with a front-mid-mounted naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine, a manual transmission, two seats, and rear-wheel drive. It’s perfection!
Jeep Wrangler — Starting MSRP: $32,690
The Jeep Wrangler isn’t your average convertible, but what it lacks in sportiness, it more than makes up for in off-road capabilities. It’s the perfect vehicle for those who want to explore nature and get some fresh air… without actually getting out of the car.
There are multiple trims to choose from, ranging from the Sport to the Rubicon X. The latter is one of the best off-road vehicles straight off the showroom floor. It comes equipped with all the necessary off-road hardware to conquer the wild, including Dana axles, an electronically disconnecting front anti-roll bar, and locking front and rear differentials. It also features a premium interior with numerous luxuries and creature comforts.
Ford Bronco — Starting MSRP: $37,995
If you need an off-road-capable SUV with a removable roof, but you’re not a fan of the Jeep Wrangler, Ford has an alternative option for you. The Ford Bronco is slightly more expensive than the Wrangler, but in my opinion, it’s also cooler and totally worth it!
Even the base model Bronco is an excellent option, as its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine produces up to 300 horsepower, which is sent to all four wheels via a 7-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. Spend a bit more on the available Sasquatch Package, and it’ll be even better when you venture off the beaten path, thanks to 35-inch tires, beadlock-capable wheels, electronic locking front and rear differentials, a unique suspension system, and a wider track width.
Ford Mustang Convertible — Starting MSRP: $40,120
The Ford Mustang is now the only traditional American muscle car left on the market. Like its Fastback models, Ford offers the Mustang Convertible in a variety of trims with different engine options to choose from.
The biggest Mustang news for 2025 (other than the Mustang GTD targeting record-setting Nürburgring lap times) is the introduction of the 60th Anniversary Edition, as reported by Ezra Dyer at Car and Driver. Exclusive to the GT models, only 1965 units will be produced, referencing the year Ford introduced the Mustang, although sales actually began in April 1964, as a 1965 model.
BMW Z4 — Starting MSRP: $54,050
In its latest iteration, the BMW Z4 is more sophisticated than ever, which also means it’s more user-friendly for everyday use than its predecessors. Many enthusiasts are already well aware that it’s based on the same platform as the new Toyota Supra, and while some try to frame it as a bad thing, I’ll tell you they’re talking nonsense!
If you want maximum driving pleasure, opt for the Z4 M40i with the Handschalter option (German for handshifter). As reported by Car and Driver, this will give you a sporty car with dynamic handling, a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine producing 382 German racehorses, and a manual transmission. There’s also an M-specific aerodynamic package and M Sport brakes, and the interior features M Sport seats and digital enhancements, including the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.
Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet — Starting MSRP: $66,450
Not that long ago, Mercedes offered a bunch of convertible cars, but now there’s only the AMG SL and this, the CLE, the choose from. The CLE essentially blends the C-Class and E-Class convertibles into one, combining both the sportiness of the former and the comfort of the latter.
Mercedes-Benz offers it in 300 4MATIC, 450 4MATIC, and AMG CLE 53 trims. The “entry-level” CLE is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the CLE450 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine with 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The AMG also features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6, producing 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. All models are equipped with a hybrid system featuring an electric motor.
Chevrolet Corvette — Starting MSRP: $70,195
For its latest trick, Chevrolet gave its Corvette a blend that included a mid-engine V8 layout, exotic styling, high-performance, and surprising affordability. In the Stingray, the V8 produces 495 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, which are sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Car and Driver reports that the C8 Corvette offers around a third more open space than the Targa model when the roof panel has been removed. However, the convertible ‘Vette also has some distinct styling differences, as the C-pillars are turned into flying buttresses.
Porsche 718 Boxster — Starting MSRP: $74,900
In typical Porsche fashion, there are more Boxster variants than you can shake a stick at, and only the geekiest of car nerds can tell the difference between them. For most, the turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder will get the job done. It may not have the seductive boxer-6 sound, but with 300 hp, it’ll sprint to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and continue until reaching the limiter at 171 mph. You’ll want the excellent 6-speed manual, by the way, no matter how good the PDK gearbox is.
The Porsche 718 Boxster has no real rivals. It offers great engines, plenty of power, slick transmissions, and one of the best chassis known to man.
Jaguar F-Type Convertible — Starting MSRP: $77,900
Some might say the Jag F-Type is a bit long in the tooth and slightly outdated compared to the competition, but honestly, who cares? This is a stylish and sinister-looking British sports car that growls like a bulldog, but without taking itself too seriously. It’s in its final run, with production ending and remaining cars available into early 2025, as the carmaker has decided to alienate its established fan base and will focus entirely on EVs from now on.
Those who want to turn rubber into tire smoke should check out the F-Type R75. With 575 hp, it’ll launch to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and those brave enough to keep the loud pedal buried in carpet will see a top speed of 186 mph.
BMW M4 Convertible — Starting MSRP: $96,000
I never thought I’d say this, but since BMW now only offers the four-seater M4 convertible with all-wheel drive, it’s actually a very practical car that can be used year-round. Obviously, practicality is a bonus, as it was primarily designed to be fast.
For 2025, the top-spec BMW M4 Competition Convertible xDrive is equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-6 engine producing 523 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. When MotorTrend tested it, it reached 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, 0.4 seconds faster than BMW’s own estimates.
Lexus LC500 — Starting MSRP: $108,300
Lexus may just be the best carmaker in the world right now, but it’s also one of the most underrated. According to Consumer Reports, it’s among the most reliable brands out there, yet many consumers haven’t even heard of the Lexus LC500.
The Lexus LC500 Convertible is stunning, boasting a design that strikes a perfect balance between aggression and elegance. It’s not all show and no go, either. The Lexus LC500 packs some serious heat in the form of a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter 2UR-GSE V8 engine churning out 471 hp and 398 lb-ft, along with an eargasmic soundtrack.
Mercedes-AMG SL — Starting MSRP: $113,100
The SL has been a part of Mercedes’ lineup for decades, the original with gullwing doors arrived in 1954. Since then, we’ve seen seven generations, each becoming more advanced and impressive than the one preceding it. SL, meaning Sporty and Light, lost its meaning several generations ago, as the SL continued to gain weight, evolving into a grand tourer rather than a sports car.
However, AMG is now at the helm of SL production, and it seems the Germans are serious about revamping the SL. It features an all-new monocoque and chassis, and in the top version, the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE plug-in hybrid system produces 805 hp and 1,047 lb-ft of torque, which can accelerate it to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Unfortunately, that particular model costs over $200,000.
Porsche 911 — Starting MSRP: $122,095
Porsche has spent decades tweaking and perfecting its rear-engined formula, and it shows that journalists are just loving the latest 911 Cabrio. Car Magazine awarded it a solid 5/5 stars, but you know what’s better than that? 10/10, which is exactly what Car and Driver scored it. It’s so good, it’s almost annoying!
It has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-six engine with 388 hp and sprints to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds; I can’t think of any real-world scenario where that’s not enough. You win, Porsche! Well played.
BMW M8 — Starting MSRP: $140,975
BMW’s M8 convertible looks like it’s too big and awkward to be a great sports car, but it’s like the Tyson Fury of the car world, and it packs a serious punch! Keep in mind that it’s built by BMW’s M division, and those experts know how to craft a fast and flashy grand tourer. According to BMW M, it’s available with the Competition Package, meaning its 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine will deliver an astonishing 625 hp, giving it near-supercar performance.
Zero to 62 mph is dealt with in a mere 3.3 seconds, and the driver has plenty of assists and settings to play with, whether it’s to optimize on-track performance or cross continents in style and comfort.
Maserati Gran Cabrio — Starting MSRP: $149,995
This one gets bonus points for being one of my personal favorites. If you want style, it’s hard to beat the Maserati Gran Cabrio. With its effortless swagger, it’s the automotive equivalent of a bespoke suit. Whereas the competition is fighting for your attention and trying to make a statement, the Gran Cabrio is too cool and charismatic for that. It knows people desperately want it, and with good reason.
Hiding beneath its alluring exterior, we find a roaring, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that’s home to 483 Italian thoroughbreds in the base model. Those opting for the Trofeo version get a stonking 542 stallions. Still not enough? Well, how about the Folgore with a rather ridiculous 750 hp?!
Aston Martin DB12 Volante — Starting MSRP: $251,825
Aston Martin, a carmaker that’s proudly British, chose to name its convertible “Volante,” which, according to Merriam-Webster, is Italian for “flying.” That’s a bit pretentious, isn’t it? On the other hand, I get how they arrived at that, as the DB12 Volante is practically a road-going private jet.
Under its sleek, vented hood, a twin-turbo 4.0-liter AMG-derived V8 produces 671 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, which is directed straight to the rear axle via an 8-speed automatic transmission. There was a time when that kind of power would result in endless tire smoke, but thanks to English wizardry (and modern technology), it now translates into a 3.6-second 0-60 mph sprint and a 202 mph top speed. See what I meant when I called it a road-going private jet? This thing will let you cross continents in no time, and you’ll look stylish while doing so.
McLaren Artura Spider — Starting MSRP: $273,800
Over the years, McLaren has become known for using massively powerful V12 and V8 engines; however, the McLaren Artura is different. The Artura is the first McLaren hybrid to feature a V6, and it can even drive 21 miles on electric power alone. Don’t worry, it’s still as fast as we’d expect a McLaren to be, and the brand says its focus was on making it a fun driver’s car.
Looking at the specs, we believe them. Its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and electric motor produce more power than you can realistically use in most real-life scenarios — 690 hybrid horses, to be exact. With a top speed of 205 mph, the Artura is faster than many of the British carmaker’s V8-powered models.
Ferrari Roma Spider — Starting MSRP: $279,965
In my opinion, the Ferrari Roma is the most breathtakingly gorgeous car to emerge from Maranello in a long time. Sure, there are other models with more aggressive styling, but the Roma just looks… right! While its front-engined, drop-top predecessors had a retractable hardtop, Ferrari ditched that in favor of a traditional fabric roof. However, I don’t think most people will miss it anyway.
Under the hood, the Roma has a 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8, housing 612 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to the rear end via an 8-speed DCT gearbox. More importantly, in true Ferrari fashion, it emits a glorious soundtrack we could listen to all day.
Bentley Continental GTC — Starting MSRP: $284,750
If opulent luxury is your thing, look no further than the Bentley Continental GTC. The regular Bentley Continental is among the best GT cars money can buy, and the convertible option adds endless headroom. What more could you possibly need if you’re looking to cruise from coast to coast in style and utter comfort?
It’s not all show and no go, either! Bentley says its new V8 hybrid powertrains are supremely capable, and the Ultra Performance Hybrid, which is available on the most powerful models, produces an astonishing 771 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque.
Ferrari 296 GTS — Starting MSRP: $346,950
Ferrari claims its 2025 296 GTS is the “epitome of driving pleasure,” and upon seeing it, they may be right. This is a high-performance, open-top, plug-in hybrid supercar, featuring a folding hardtop roof that can be operated in just 14 seconds.
Underneath its breathtaking exterior, we find the same powertrain as the 296 GTB coupe, comprising a twin-turbocharged V6 engine combined with an electric motor and a 7.45-kWh battery pack, for a total output of 818 hp. Being a Ferrari, it also has an eye-watering price tag.
Feel the Wind in Your Hair
While convertibles aren’t as popular as they once were, there are still quite a few of them available, and they’re, arguably, better and more capable than ever. As you can see, it’s possible even for us mere mortals to get behind the wheel of one, and on the right road, the entry-level Miata can make you smile just as much as the ridiculously priced Ferrari 296 GTS.
Please let us know in the comments if you think there are other models that should be included in this article.