Tracey McBain from multi-franchise dealer group, Lookers tells us which convertible cars make the best companions in the warmer months.
It must be summer. We’re seeing more of the sun, Wimbledon is just around the corner, and more convertible cars are making their way on to our roads.
For those who love the wind in their hair and sun on their faces — and, let’s face it, who doesn’t — driving with the roof down is a must. Contrary to popular belief, the UK enjoys some wonderful weather in the summer months, which is why, according to Automotive News Europe, people from Britain buy more convertibles than anywhere else in Europe, apart from Germany.
However, if you haven’t yet experienced the joy and freedom that comes with owning a convertible, here are some that we think might tempt you.
Fiat 500c
This convertible version of the iconic Italian city car is a particularly stylish option. Along with its sliding canvas roof, it retains all of the design highlights of its hard-top counterpart and allows you to welcome summer as quickly as uno, due, tre.
The 500c convertible also comes with the same engine options as the standard Fiat 500 and the compact two-cylinder engine has a very low CO2 output, making it particularly eco-friendly.
© Image Fiat
Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible
If an adrenaline rush is what you’re after, the sublime and agile F-TYPE convertible is the car for you. All of the engines in this range offer an incredibly smooth, eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as a luxurious interior and superior in-car technology.
According to Jaguar, this car has managed to “surpass all expectations”, having picked up a range of awards, including the TopGear Magazine ‘Convertible of the Year’ award. Who doesn’t want an award-winner in their life?
© Image: Jaguar
Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet
The latest VW Golf Cabriolet is a soft-top version of the Mk7 VW Golf. Rightly considered to be the best in its class, the Cabriolet is fun to drive and the roof opens and closes impressively quickly. It only takes 9.5 seconds and can be done at speeds of up to 19mph, allowing for some summer spontaneity.
The award-winning Golf Cabriolet not only delivers refinement and elegance, but also fantastic performance thanks to the petrol and engine options it offers.
© Image: Volkswagen
Audi A3 Cabriolet
Embrace al fresco driving in the stylish A3 Cabriolet. With its ultra-sleek body and extensive range of Audi technological features, it provides the ultimate driving experience.
Named WhatCar? Car Of The Year 2016 (Best Convertible) Audi A3 Cabriolet has been described as “a fantastic all-round convertible that compromises little of the A3’s everyday practicality, [with the added] fun of a soft-top”.
© Image:Audi
Citroën’s DS3 Cabrio
Combining style and performance with its stylish exterior and well-equipped interior, the DS3 Cabrio is a brilliant choice for someone who wants it all. You can also personalise this car by choosing from a wide range of alloy wheels, body colours, leather seat trims and roof colours.
The roof itself only takes 16 seconds to retract fully and can be done at speeds of up to 75mph, which is perfect for when our British weather just can’t make its mind up.
© Image: Citroen
If you want to make the most of your summer, then getting a convertible is undoubtedly the best way to go about it. Now you just have to choose which one will suit you best.