I have always had a soft spot for convertible cars. When I took a solo weekend trip along the California coast a few years back, I rented one, and the experience stayed with me. The top was down, the ocean breeze was in my face, and every curve of the road felt like a quiet escape from the everyday rush. It was one of the most memorable and fun drives of my life.
Since then, I have been drawn to that same mix of open-air freedom and confident performance in every convertible I encounter. In 2025, there are plenty of options that deliver it without emptying your wallet. Many of the best 2-door and 4-door models are the best cars for money starting under $45,000, and some well-maintained pre-owned options can make you feel like you are driving something brand new.
Whether you are after a nimble two-seater for an individual or a four-seater that can handle a family trip, my top ten picks bring style, comfort, and that special feeling only a convertible can offer. The latest Mazda MX-5 Miata tops my list with Ford Mustang, MINI Cooper, Ford Bronco, and others following. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Choose a Convertible in 2025?
Convertible cars in 2025 aren’t just for sunny weekends anymore. Modern vehicles are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and loaded with tech that makes them just as comfortable on a road trip as a quick spin around town.
If you’re wondering who makes convertibles now, the list is actually longer than you’d think. Top car brands like Mazda, Ford, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and others are producing convertibles that not only offer a roofless experience but also give you the taste of luxury. Whether you want a zippy two-seater or a roomy four-seater, there’s something built for you.
And here’s the best part: you don’t have to drain your savings to get one. With more affordable new releases and well-kept pre-owned choices on the market, that open-air freedom is easier to attain than ever. This year might just be the perfect time for you to finally make the leap. And as the new model year approaches, you’ll also see more financing options and lease deals that make owning a convertible even easier.
Top 10 Convertible Cars Worth Your Money in 2025
If you are chasing that perfect mix of style, open-air fun, and everyday usability, these are the cool cars that stand out in 2025. I have included both new models starting under $45,000 and well-kept pre-owned picks that still feel fresh on the road. Each convertible car brings its own personality, from sporty two-seaters that thrive on winding backroads to roomy four-door options built for weekend adventures with friends or family.
1. 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- Price: Starting From $29,530
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 181 hp
- MPG: Up to 26 city / 35 highway
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel-drive
- Dimensions: 154″ L x 68″ W x 49″ H
The latest MX-5 Miata is worth it because it delivers pure open-air fun without painful ownership costs. The steering feels alive, the shifter clicks with a satisfying snap, and the soft roof drops in a few easy motions. It is the lightweight roadster that still makes you take the long way home.
Inside, the cabin of this fun-to-drive convertible keeps things simple and focused. Seats hug you just enough. The screen pairs quickly and wirelessly with your phone and then disappears into the background. The luggage room is small, so think of a weekender bag, not a month of gear. Also, if you plan to put a child car seat or a stroller in there, you will be disappointed.
What I truly like about this Japanese sports car is that it comes with a starting price of $29,530, along with ownership costs that stay within your means. This is a sweet spot for anyone chasing cool convertible cars without a luxury payment.
2. 2025 Ford Mustang Convertible (EcoBoost)
- Price: Starting From From $40,120
- Engine: 2.3 L 4-cylinder, 5.0 L V8
- Horsepower: 315 to 486 hp
- MPG: Up to 20 city / 28 highway
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive
- Dimensions: 189″ L x 75″ W x 55″ H
The Ford Mustang convertible offers the muscle look without the heavy bill. Its turbo four feels eager when you press the pedal, and the steering settles down on the highway. The roof drops without drama, and the big screens are easy to live with every day. In most showrooms, you will see the base convertible sitting just under forty thousand dollars, so your budget can breathe.
Live with it, and you will see why people drive it year-round. The front seats stay kind on long days, and the trunk still takes two soft bags with the top down. Spend your money on the safety pack and a better sound system before you chase bigger wheels. Take a short test drive on your normal roads and see if it makes you smile.
3. 2025 Mazda MX‑5 Miata RF
- Price: Starting From $37,550
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 181 hp
- MPG: Up to 26 city / 35 highway
- Transmission:6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Rear wheel drive
- Dimensions: 154″ L x 68″ W x 49″ H
The RF adds year-round calm to the Miata recipe without dulling the fun. The power roof of this sports car glides away and leaves a tidy targa feel. Steering stays quick. The two-liter engine loves to rev. Noise levels drop compared with the soft top, which makes longer drives easier.
Cabin controls are simple, and the seats hold you just right. Phone pairing is quick, and the screen stays out of the way. Trunk space is modest, so I recommend you always pack light. Most window stickers sit in the upper thirty range when you keep options simple. Among little convertible cars, this is the polished take that still makes detours feel worth it.
4. 2025 Ford Bronco (2-door, soft/hard top)
- Price: Starting From $38,995
- Engine: 2.3 L 4-cylinder, 2.7 L V6, 3.0 L V6
- Horsepower: 275 to 418 hp
- MPG: Up to 20 city / 21 highway
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic, 7-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Four wheel drive
- Dimensions: 189.4” L x 86.3″ W x 75.9” H
The ultimate mountain car Bronco, brings open sky and real trail ability in one simple package. Panels and doors come off with patience, and the upright view turns every errand into a small trip. The ride is honest on pavement and confident on dirt.
Pick the roof that fits your life. Soft tops are quicker to live with. Hard tops seal better in winter. Base two-door builds usually begin in the high thirties and can slide into the low forties with wheels and tires. If a top-down car should handle sand and snow, this one makes sense. You can buy the base model for just $38,995.
5. 2025 MINI Cooper Convertible
- Price: Starting From $33,950
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 161 to 228 hp
- MPG: Up to 27 city / 37 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Dimensions: 153″ L x 69″ W x 56″ H
If you want a drop top you can drive every day, you will feel right with the all-new MINI Cooper. The steering is quick, the little turbo feels eager, and the roof has a half-open setting for cool mornings. You are looking at $33,950 to start, which keeps the fun within reach without wrecking your budget. If you have been hunting for a cute convertible, open-top car with 2 seats, this one gives you the look and a tiny back seat when you need it.
It is not just about looks but driving comfort as well. The playful cabin puts everything where you expect, even the short drivers, especially women, will find everything within their reach. The small footprint makes it easy to maneuver tight city roads. What truly amazes me is the back seat that fits kids for long drives and adults for quick rides.
You can see zero to sixty in seven seconds and highway mileage in the mid-thirties when you drive gently. You can add blind spot monitoring and lane keeping to take the edge off long days. Plus, the factory warranty options help keep early ownership costs simple. If the vibe fits you, take a short local test drive and see if it makes you smile.
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6. 2024 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible (1LT)
- Price: Starting From $30,900
- Engine: 3.6 L V6
- Horsepower: 335 hp
- MPG: Up to 18 city / 29 highway
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
- Dimensions: 188-190″ L x 75″ W x 53″ H
The Chevrolet Camaro 1LT delivers classic style with everyday manners at a friendly entry price. The chassis feels planted on wide sweepers, and the front seats hold you steady. Drop the fabric roof, and the shape just works.
Set mirrors with care because visibility can be tight in traffic. Keep wheel size sensible to protect ride comfort. Many dealer stickers land in the mid to upper thirty range before options. That mix is why it still appears on lists of the best convertible cars.
7. 2021 BMW Z4
- Price: Starting From $37,000
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 3.0 L 6-cylinder
- Horsepower: 255 to 382 hp
- MPG: Up to 25 city / 32 highway
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
- Dimensions: 171″ L x 73″ W x 51″ H
A 2021 Z4 brings roadster polish for far less than new money. The ride smooths out broken pavement. Power is strong for quick merges. The roof folds with a neat motion and seals well.
The cabin looks and feels upscale with clear screens and easy controls. Prioritize a clean history and consistent service. Clean low-mile examples often sell in the low forties, depending on engine and packages. As a total package, it fits neatly with the best convertible vehicles.
8. 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (Soft Top)
- Price: Starting From $33,000
- Engine: 6.4 L V8
- Horsepower: 470 hp
- MPG: 13 city / 17 highway
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive
- Dimensions: 188.4″ L x 73.8″ W x 73.6″ H
The Wrangler Unlimited keeps the roof off vibe while carrying people and gear with ease. Four doors help with car seats and coolers. The soft top gets simple after a little practice. Expect more wind and tire noise than a low sports car, and enjoy the tall view that pays you back every day.
Bring your family on the test drive to check fit. Many fair mile trucks list in the low forties, though regional markets vary. For a true 4-door convertible experience that still plays in the dirt, this is the classic route.
9. 2020 Audi A5 Cabriolet
- Price: Starting From $25,000-$30,000
- Engine: 2.0L TFSI 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 248 hp
- MPG: 23 city / 31 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive
- Dimensions: 184.9″ L x 72.5″ W x 54.4″ H
The A5 Cabriolet delivers quiet comfort and all-weather confidence. Quattro calms rain and light snow. The fabric roof is well insulated, so winter mornings stay relaxed. Seats support you on long days, and the tech is straightforward.
Certified examples with sensible miles commonly sit just above forty for shoppers who want a premium feel without new prices. Take a highway loop and a rough side street in the same drive. Strong owner reviews are why it returns often among the best-rated convertibles.
10. 2019 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet
- Price: Starting From $31,000
- Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 3.0 L V6, 4.0 L V8
- Horsepower: 255 to 503 hp
- MPG: Up to 21 city / 29 highway
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
- Dimensions: 185-187″ L x 71-74″ W x 55″ H
The C Class Cabriolet offers an easy ride and rich materials that still feel special. Night lighting sets a calm mood. Roof action is smooth and tidy. The front seats are kind to your back. Check roof seals and ask for full service records. Well-kept cars with clear history often fall in the low forties, depending on spec. If attainable luxury is your goal, this German car remains a fine example of luxury cabriolets done right.
Buying Tips for New and Used Convertible Cars
Buying a convertible gets easier when you know what to check first. Start with a clear budget and a short list of must-haves. Think about the roof type, seats, and how you plan to use the car every week. Then plan a test route that matches your daily drive and check the roof operation in bright light. Compare local prices, read the history, and bring a trusted mechanic if it is used. Do these simple steps, and you will shop with confidence
Know the real cost
How much does a convertible cost depends on the year, trim, and condition. New entry models often sit in the low to mid-forty range, while clean used cars spread widely by mileage and options. Leave room for insurance, tires, and roof care.
Shop the right listings
Use convertibles for sale near me to see local stock and real asking prices. If you prefer certified and warranty support, search for pre-owned convertible cars for sale and compare programs. For broader marketplaces, use convertible cars for sale and filter by year, trim, and roof type.
Be smart with used models
Bring a trusted mechanic for a pre-purchase check. Ask for service records and a full history report. If the ad says 2nd hand convertibles from a private seller, meet in a safe place and inspect the roof seals in bright light.
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Match the car to your life
If you carry friends or family, filter for convertible cars 4-seaters and check rear legroom with the front seats set for you. If you live where winters bite, try a hard roof or test how well the soft top insulates on a cold morning.
Inspect the roof like a pro
Open and close it three times. Listen for clicks and watch for smooth motion. Look for frayed fabric, gaps at the glass, damp carpets, and water marks in the trunk. A quiet test drive over bumps will reveal rattles you do not want.
Mind the test route
Drive your normal loop. A little highway, a few rough streets, one tight parking garage. Try a quick roof drop at a stop and check rear visibility with the top up.
Compare total ownership
Ask dealers to itemize doc fees and add-ons. Price tires and routine service for your exact wheel size. If you plan to keep the car long term, certified coverage can be worth it.
Hunt for bargains and projects
If you are handy and want a fixer, search convertible project cars for sale under $5,000 and budget for roof and suspension work. If you want simple and safe, stick to certified used convertible cars for sale with clean histories.
Close with timing
Deals improve at the end of the month and as the new model year arrives. Save your favorite cars and refresh often. When the right one appears, move quickly and bring your financing ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a convertible in winter or rain?
Yes, you can. Insulated soft tops keep heat in, and hard roofs add extra hush. Good tires matter more than anything, so fit proper winter rubber if you see snow. Keep rubber seals clean and treat them with a safe conditioner so the roof stays quiet and watertight.
Does insurance cost more for a convertible?
Sometimes, but not always. Rates depend on the model, your location, and how you store the car. Get two or three quotes with the same limits and ask about discounts for garage parking, telematics, or defensive driving courses.
What should you check on a used convertible roof?
Open and close it three times. It should move smoothly with no jerks or squeaks. Look for frayed fabric, glass gaps, damp carpets, and water marks in the trunk. Drive over a few bumps with the top up and listen for rattles near the header and side windows.
Is a soft roof less secure than a metal roof?
It can be, so plan smart. Do not leave valuables in view. Park in well-lit areas or a garage when you can. Many owners add a simple alarm and glass break sensor for peace of mind. If you want quieter and a little extra security, a power hard roof model is a good fit.
Conclusion
Convertible cars still add joy to everyday driving, and you do not need a supercar budget to feel it. You now have a tight list of new and pre-owned picks that start under forty-five thousand. Choose the one that suits your roads and your routine.
Make a short list and check local inventory. Plan a quick test drive with a bit of highway and a rough street. Try the roof three times in good light and bring a friend if it is used. If it makes you smile on a short drive, it will keep doing that.
