Best Convertible Cars to buy 2026
In this guide, we'll walk you through our top 10 convertible cars. We've filtered out the noise to bring you honest, straightforward advice on what makes each of these drop-tops special. By the end of this list, you'll be well-equipped to find the perfect convertible that brings a smile to your face and fits your lifestyle perfectly.
The Cazoo editorial team
Published on 10 April 2026 | 7 mins read
There's nothing quite like the feeling of dropping the roof on a sunny day and taking your favourite car out for a spin. We as Brits love our convertibles, and sales figures tend to prove that – that’s surprising when you consider how rainy the UK can be, but serves as a testament to how much we appreciate a sunny day when it comes.
Convertibles are getting scarcer and scarcer to buy new, though, so the used market is actually the best place to look for one in 2026. Whether you want a sporty little two-seater for weekend blasts or a spacious cruiser for family road trips, making the right choice is crucial for your enjoyment and your wallet.
1. Mazda MX-5
The Mazda MX-5 is the undisputed king of the affordable roadster, and it's easy to see why. It offers pure, unadulterated driving joy without breaking the bank. If you're looking for exceptional value, the Mk3 (also known as the NC) is a fantastic place to start, offering a slightly more spacious cabin and a choice between a traditional soft-top or a folding metal hardtop. For driving purists wanting modern tech and punchy power options, the current Mk4 (ND) is an absolute dream to drive on twisty roads.
Tip: If you park on the street, a hardtop model provides a bit of extra security and noise insulation, making it a brilliant choice for year-round driving.
2. MINI Convertible
If you want a car that matches your fashionable aesthetic and guarantees a giggle every time you get behind the wheel, the MINI Convertible's a superb choice. It keeps all the cheeky go-kart handling of the hatchback but adds the thrill of open-air driving. To save yourself from potential mechanical headaches, it's best to avoid the Mk2 models fitted with the infamous 'Prince' engine. Instead, look towards the charming Mk1 or the highly refined Mk3, both of which make fantastic, reliable daily drivers.
Tip: Always check the condition of the canvas roof for any green algae or wear marks before buying, as replacing a MINI roof can be quite pricey.
3. Abarth 595 Convertible
Loud, proud, and incredibly fun, the Abarth 595 Convertible's a brilliant tribute to the 60s icon. Rather than a full folding roof, it's got a simple, electrically sliding canvas top that peels back to let the sunshine—and that glorious exhaust note—into the cabin. It might be small, but taking this punchy little Italian car down a winding country road is a fantastic experience that'll leave you grinning from ear to ear.
Tip: Because the roof pillars stay in place when the top is open, you get the open-air feel without too much wind buffeting—perfect if you want to arrive with your hair still intact!
4. MG Cyberster
Electric cars don't have to be boring, and the MG Cyberster's here to prove it. This is a premium electric option that combines zero-emissions driving with seriously striking looks and incredible power. It's even got dramatic scissor doors that'll turn heads at the supermarket. Let's be honest, though: being packed with heavy batteries means it's a bit heftier than a traditional lightweight sports car, but the instant electric torque more than makes up for it in a straight line.
Tip: Make sure you have a reliable home charging setup installed before taking the plunge, so your Cyberster is always fully juiced up for a weekend drive.
5. Fiat 124 Spider and Abarth 124 Spider
If you love the reliability of the Mazda MX-5 but prefer a healthy dose of retro Italian styling, the Fiat 124 Spider's your perfect match. Underneath, it shares a lot of parts with the Mazda, but it's got Fiat's own torquey 1.4-litre turbocharged engine. If you want something with a bit more bite, the Abarth version turns up the heat with more power, stiffer suspension, and an exhaust sound that crackles and pops beautifully.
Tip: The 1.4-litre turbo engine loves regular oil changes, so look for a car with a watertight service history to ensure it keeps running sweetly.
6. Audi A3 Cabriolet
For those who want rock-solid German build quality mixed with the ease of daily use, the Audi A3 Cabriolet's a stellar option. Because it's rooted in the brilliant A3 hatchback, it's practical, comfortable, and relatively affordable to run. You don't need a massive budget to get into one, either; prices for a well-kept older model start at around £8000. It's a classy, understated way to enjoy the sunshine.
Tip: Look for models equipped with Audi's 'neck-level heating' system, which blows warm air on your neck so you can comfortably keep the roof down even on crisp winter mornings.
7. BMW Z4
The BMW Z4's got that classic sports car recipe: a long bonnet, rear-wheel drive, and plenty of brand appeal. Across its three generations, there's a huge variety of engines to pick from, ranging from sensible four-cylinders to silky-smooth six-cylinders. If refinement and security are top of your list, seek out the second-generation model, which features a clever folding metal hard-top that turns it into a quiet coupe when the British weather turns sour.
Tip: The hard-top roof mechanism on the second-gen is complex. When test driving, operate the roof a few times to ensure it opens and closes smoothly without any strange grinding noises.
8. Ford Mustang Convertible
Sometimes, you just want a bit of brash 'Americana' appeal, and the Ford Mustang Convertible delivers that in spades. Best of all, modern versions are available in right-hand drive (RHD), making them much easier to pilot on tight UK roads. You've got a choice here: go for the full-fat, rumbling V8 engine for the authentic muscle car experience, or opt for the 2.3-litre EcoBoost if you'd prefer better fuel efficiency without losing those iconic looks.
Tip: The Mustang is a wide car, so make sure you test drive it on the types of roads you usually use to ensure you are comfortable with its footprint.
9. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
If your idea of a perfect drive involves cruising down the coast in supreme comfort, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet's tough to beat. This high-end cruiser is built for covering long distances effortlessly. Unlike many convertibles on this list, it's actually got enough space for children in the back seats and a boot large enough to swallow your luggage for a weekend getaway. It's the perfect blend of luxury and practicality.
Tip: Opt for a model with the 'Aircap' wind deflector system. It rises from the top of the windscreen to push air over the cabin, keeping rear passengers blissfully free from wind turbulence.
10. Toyota MR2 Mk3
We couldn't finish this list without mentioning the Toyota MR2 Mk3. This is a pure, mid-engined roadster that handles like a dream while keeping Toyota's legendary dependability. It's also incredibly affordable to buy and run. We won't sugarcoat it, though: storage space is virtually non-existent, so you'll need to pack very light. But when you're tackling a twisty B-road, you'll completely forget about the lack of boot space.
Tip: Pack your belongings in soft squishy bags rather than hard suitcases; they are much easier to cram into the MR2's tiny storage cubbies behind the seats.
Finding the right convertible's all about matching the car's personality to your own. Whether you want the raw driving thrill of an MX-5 or the luxurious comfort of an E-Class, your perfect drop-top's out there waiting for you. Browse our latest selection of convertibles and get ready to enjoy the open road.