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In this report
- Introduction{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{2 mentions}{1 mention}{2 mentions}{1 mention}{1 mention}
- Premium convertibles{1 mention}{2 mentions}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}
- Budget convertibles{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}
- Useful Links
- Our Sources
Convertibles: Ratings of Sources
Total of 29 Sources
For an explanation of how we rank reviews, see our ratings criteria page.
2010 Convertible Buying Guide
by Editors of Edmunds.com
by Editors of Edmunds.com
Our AssessmentEdmunds.com tests new cars as they hit the market, judging their performance and comfort. Here, editors list their top choices for convertibles and roadsters, divided into price categories. Click on a model's name to view a price list and summary review. Edmunds.com also names convertibles to its Consumers' Top-Rated and Lowest True Cost to Own lists.
Recommended Convertibles
by Editors of ConsumerReports.org
by Editors of ConsumerReports.org
Our AssessmentConsumerReports.org continually does research on automobiles, which it purchases from local dealers, just as any other car shopper would. While many reviews are written for car enthusiasts, ConsumerReports.org writes for the average consumer, focusing on safety, reliability and fuel economy -- although experts do thoroughly test and rate each car's performance and handling, too. Editors rate cars from best to worst in easy-to-read charts, and they recommend the best models. Only subscribers can read these ratings, but ConsumerReports.org's automotive blog is open to everyone and is frequently updated.
2010 10Best Cars
by Tony Swan
by Tony Swan
Our AssessmentFor 26 years, Car and Driver magazine has published an annual 10Best list. Several of the 2010 10Best are either convertibles or offer a convertible body style. The quality of research and the credibility of Car and Driver magazine's list in the automobile market make reviews on this site among the best available.
2010 Best Buy and Recommended Awards
by Auto Editors of ConsumerGuide.com
by Auto Editors of ConsumerGuide.com
Our AssessmentConsumerGuide.com evaluates just about every new car on the market. Although the cars are put through their paces on a test track, greater weight is given to how a car performs in more typical driving on public roads. Cars are given numerical ratings in 11 important areas ranging from acceleration to value. Several of the resulting Best Buy and Recommended picks are either convertibles or are available in convertible body styles.
Recommended Shopping Lists: Convertibles
by Editors of Kelley Blue Book
by Editors of Kelley Blue Book
Our AssessmentKelley Blue Book is most noted for listing the values of new and used vehicles. In addition, its website has a vast library of automotive reviews and advice. For 2010, the staff recommends nine convertibles ranging from affordable and fun to luxurious. Each recommendation is linked to a convertible-specific review, but the picks are not ranked.
Comparison: 2010 Audi TTS vs. 2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2010 Nissan 370Z vs. 2009 Porsche Boxster S
by Ed Loh
by Ed Loh
Our AssessmentMotor Trend magazine compares four sporty convertibles and concludes that the Porsche Boxster is its favorite by a wide margin, describing it as being "in a different league" and being a great all-around package. Of the remaining competition, the Audi TTS ranks second for its impressive grip and overall polish, while the BMW Z4 and Nissan 370Z place third and fourth respectively.
Luxury Convertible Comparison: 2010 Audi A5 vs. 2010 BMW 335i vs. 2009 Infiniti G37 vs. Lexus IS 350
by Arthur St. Antoine
by Arthur St. Antoine
Our AssessmentThe BMW 3 Series convertible (in the 335i trim) easily wins Motor Trend magazine's luxury-convertible shoot-out due to its handling prowess, well-engineered folding hard top and powerful twin-turbo, 3-liter, six-cylinder engine. Although the BMW's base price is higher than the competition here, the author notes that "the sticker premium is worth it" and that "all the money has clearly gone to the right places." The Lexus IS and Audi A5 are seen as good, albeit less engaging, competitors, and the Infiniti G37 disappoints for its lack of overall polish.
Top Picks for Sun Lovers
by Editors of Cars.com
by Editors of Cars.com
Our AssessmentThe reviews at Cars.com are sometimes brief, but they're always easy to read and insightful. In addition, editors often reprint reviews from other publications in the same section for each car, so it's possible to read six or seven reviews in succession. Each year, Cars.com editors choose a number of Best Bets in various categories, including convertibles. This page reveals the best convertible and the best value for model year 2010, plus a few other models to consider, with links to full reviews.
Overall Crashworthiness Evaluations: Midsize Convertibles
by Editors of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
by Editors of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Our AssessmentTop-rated vehicles in crash tests are honored by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) with a Top Safety Pick award. Each of the vehicles must earn Good ratings in front, side and rear crash tests and must offer electronic stability control. For 2010, the IIHS does not explicitly name Top Safety Picks within the midsize convertible category, but the Chrysler Sebring, Ford Mustang, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Eos and Volvo C70 all receive the highest possible safety ratings in the aforementioned crash tests.
2010 Most and Least Fuel Efficient Vehicles
by Editors of FuelEconomy.gov
by Editors of FuelEconomy.gov
Our AssessmentFuelEconomy.gov is the place to find detailed Environmental Protection Agency fuel-economy estimates for any car. This page lists the most and least fuel-efficient vehicles in each class. The tiny Smart ForTwo convertible is the most efficient two-seater, and the more normally sized Mazda MX-5 Miata also receives a nod in that category. The four-seat Mini Cooper, which is available as a convertible, is cited as the most efficient minicompact.
2010 Audi A5 2.0T Quattro vs. 2010 BMW 328i, 2009 Infiniti G37, 2010 Lexus IS350C -- Comparison Tests
by Tony Swan
by Tony Swan
Our AssessmentIn a test that took competitors through Arizona and high elevation, Car and Driver magazine names the BMW 3 Series convertible the champion for its unparalleled driving dynamics and willing responses. The Audi A5 falls into a second place finish and is also appreciated for its agility and solid chassis in addition to its exceptionally well-appointed interior. The Infiniti G37 and Lexus IS take third and fourth place respectively.
2009 Porsche Boxster S vs. BMW Z4 sDrive35i, Audi TTS, Chevy Corvette -- Comparison Tests
by Michael Austin
by Michael Austin
Our AssessmentThe 2009 Porsche Boxster wins this four-convertible comparison test with its ready power and precise handling. Each car gets a thorough write-up, and you can download the test-result charts.
2010 Editors Choice -- Awards
by Editors of Car and Driver
by Editors of Car and Driver
Our AssessmentExperts at Car and Driver magazine test and review most cars on the market. Here, editors pick the cars they would buy for themselves. In the convertibles category, editors recommend the BMW 3 Series, BMW 1 Series, Ford Mustang and Audi A5/S5. Links lead to concise reviews for each car.
Affordable Convertibles Put to the Test
by Stephen Markley
by Stephen Markley
Our AssessmentFive Cars.com staffers test three affordable convertibles and post their varying opinions on the site's Kicking Tires blog. Two of the reviewers find the Mazda MX-5 Miata the most fun, while two others prefer the more comfortable 2010 Ford Mustang convertible. One tester picks the Volkswagen New Beetle convertible, but others can't get over the New Beetle's poor rear visibility.
Sports Cars: Best Buys
by Editors of Which? magazine
by Editors of Which? magazine
Our AssessmentWhich? magazine is the U.K. equivalent of ConsumerReports.org. Editors test many cars before picking the best. Three dedicated roadsters and two models available as convertibles make this list of best-buy sports cars, but you must be a subscriber to access the report.
Category: Car Reviews
by Editors of TheTruthAboutCars.com
by Editors of TheTruthAboutCars.com
Our AssessmentTheTruthAboutCars.com is a car enthusiasts' website that offers strongly opinionated -- and highly insightful -- viewpoints. Staffers review a lot of cars, from budget models to luxury exotics. A search through the Reviews section turns up several models that come in a drop-top version. With a perfect 5-star rating, the Mazda MX-5 Miata gets the highest praise.
2011 Ford Mustang GT Premium Road Test
by Karl Brauer
by Karl Brauer
Our AssessmentWhile this road test details Edmunds.com's experience with the 2011 Ford Mustang coupe, nearly everything applies to the convertible version as the engine, transmission, suspension and design are essentially the same between the two versions. Karl Brauer extols the virtues of the new engines and concludes that for those waiting for the Mustang's "technology and personalization options to match its iconic styling and high-performance capabilities, the wait is over."
Car Reviews
by Editors of Autoblog.com
by Editors of Autoblog.com
Our AssessmentAutoblog.com doesn't often compare or rank cars, but the bloggers review many cars and the write-ups are well done. You'll find convertible reviews under the First Drive, Reviews and In the Autoblog Garage tags. Reviewers don't just shower praise on Bentleys and Lamborghinis -- they do a good job of explaining the good and bad points of more value-priced cars, too.
New Car Reviews
by Editors of LeftLaneNews.com
by Editors of LeftLaneNews.com
Our AssessmentThis source does not rank or compare cars, but you'll find many single-car convertible reviews in this section. Reviews are critical and well-organized, and reviewers pay attention to practical considerations (such as whether a golf bag will fit in the trunk with the top down) as well as pure performance.
Jalopnik Reviews
by Editors of Jalopnik.com
by Editors of Jalopnik.com
Our AssessmentThis website reviews a lot of cars as they hit the market, including several current convertibles. Although Jalopnik.com doesn't rank the cars or pick any favorites, the reviews are generally thorough and entertaining to read.
2010 Automobile All-Stars
by Editors of Automobile Magazine
by Editors of Automobile Magazine
Our AssessmentThe BMW Z4 and the Porsche Boxster both win 2010 All-Star awards from Automobile Magazine. The BMW Z4 is praised for its leisurely yet athletic demeanor as well as its attractive interior and exterior. If you're looking for the "perfect everyday sports car", Automobile Magazine editors say that the Porsche Boxster will suit your needs with exemplary power, handling and performance.
Five Fuel-Sipping Convertibles for Summer
by Jason Cammisa
by Jason Cammisa
Our AssessmentAutomobile Magazine provides excellent enthusiast-oriented car reviews and feature articles, such as this one that spotlights fuel-efficient convertibles. The short list includes the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Volkswagen Eos, Audi A4 Cabriolet, Mini Cooper convertible and Smart ForTwo convertible. While this article provides only a brief recap of each car, longer reviews of these and other drop-tops can be found elsewhere on the site.
Great Drive: Luxury Hardtop Convertible Comparison
by Preston Lerner
by Preston Lerner
Our AssessmentThis crop of convertibles is appropriately evaluated in sunny Laguna Beach, Calif. No winner or loser is chosen at the conclusion of this four-convertible comparison, as Preston Lerner declares that all are competent convertibles with fundamentally different philosophies. The author does single out the Volvo as being the "odd-ball" with a five-cylinder engine and front-wheel-drive configuration, but he stops short of categorizing that as a demerit. The BMW 3 Series and the Infiniti G37 are both considered fun to drive, while the Lexus IS is labeled as a more than a competent cruiser.
10 Best Convertibles of 2010
by Sam Foley
by Sam Foley
Our AssessmentMSN Autos picks the "latest rides to deliver maximum top-down satisfaction" in this convertible list. The four-seat Ford Mustang, Lexus IS and Infiniti G37 make the list, along with several two-seat roadsters. MSN Autos offers well done, full reviews for some models.
A Convertible for Any Occasion
by Charles Plueddeman
by Charles Plueddeman
Our AssessmentMSN Autos picks the best convertibles for five different lifestyles -- the Volkswagen New Beetle convertible is best for the beach, Smart ForTwo convertible is best for the city, etc. Like the site's top 10 convertible list (above), this article is not dated, but it refers to 2009 and 2010 models. Links lead to test-based reviews for some of the convertibles.
Car Rankings: Affordable Convertibles
by Editors of U.S. News Rankings and Reviews
by Editors of U.S. News Rankings and Reviews
Our AssessmentU.S. News and World Report doesn't test cars. Instead, editors research other publications' reviews of convertibles and translate them into numeric scores for several current models. In the "affordable convertible" category, the Ford Mustang and Mazda MX-5 Miata tie for first place, while the Mini Cooper and Volkswagen Eos tie for the second-highest rating. A separate list of luxury convertibles, rating models priced above $35,000, is also available, with the Chevrolet Corvette and Infiniti G37 taking top honors.
5-Star Safety Ratings
by Editors of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
by Editors of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Our AssessmentThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) crash tests most vehicles, but usually not the convertible versions. A notable exception is the 2010 Ford Mustang convertible, which gets perfect 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests, as well as for low rollover potential. However, during a side crash test of the 2010 Ford Mustang convertible, the rear passenger dummy's head hit a pillar, prompting testers to issue a "safety concern" rating.
Convertible Reviews
by Editors of NADAGuides.com
by Editors of NADAGuides.com
Our AssessmentNADAGuides.com is the National Automobile Dealers Association's consumer website, an organization best known for its vehicle appraisal books that aid in assessing the value of cars. This website offers comprehensive tips for buying and selling, as well as reviews and specs for particular models.
Ratings: New and Used Cars
by Editors of J.D. Power and Associates
by Editors of J.D. Power and Associates
Our AssessmentJ.D. Power and Associates says it bases its ratings on owner surveys. There are lots of car categories (midsize sporty, premium sporty, etc.), so there are lots of winners (much to the delight of automaker PR firms). Links lead to reviews for each car, which, disappointingly, sometimes fail to explain why a car scores well or poorly. The most useful ratings here are the dependability scores, which are based on longer-term, three-year samples. Owners say the Mazda MX-5 Miata has held up better than other convertibles in recent years, while the Volkswagen Eos receives a significantly lower overall dependability rating.
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This is our assessment of the review’s relevance, clarity of testing and thoroughness.
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