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The arrival of warmer weather across the U.S. will soon have a number of shoppers considering a wind-in-the-hair convertible. That’s because, for many people, having limitless headroom and a mobile means of sunbathing is automobile nirvana — though perhaps not for drivers who prefer loose-fitting hats.
There’s no shortage of makes and models available with a folding roof, and at prices on some models that won’t necessarily jeopardize a summer vacation fund. The automotive experts at Edmunds have helped refine these sun-loving car searches by choosing five of their top convertibles for 2023 based on their own testing and evaluations. The vehicles are listed in ascending order of price and include the destination fee.
2023 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA The Mazda MX-5 Miata is all about balance. While the Miata’s not the fastest small sports car by any stretch of the imagination, its affordable price and fun-to-drive nature make it one of Edmunds’ favorite convertibles. With sharp steering reflexes and tiny dimensions, the two-passenger Miata is a delight to drive on curvy roads. Its four-cylinder engine provides suitable acceleration, and it’ll go easy on your fuel budget.
The manually folding soft top can be quickly lowered from the driver’s seat. An available folding hardtop version, called the Miata RF, is also available. When raised, it provides added security and a handsome coupe-like profile. The bad news is that the Miata’s cockpit is quite snug and taller people might not fit. A tiny trunk is another drawback.
Starting price: $29,215 Fuel economy: 29-30 mpg combined
2023 FORD MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE The Ford Mustang convertible has been a symbol of open-air adventure since it first went on sale nearly 60 years ago. To a number of Mustang fans, the ability to fold back the top on a sunny day is as essential as having a steering wheel and pedals.
The Mustang is about to embark on its seventh generation when the all-new 2024 model arrives later this summer. This could lead to deals on the outgoing version. A punchy turbocharged four-cylinder coupled with a choice of six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic is the base powertrain. A rumbling V8 is optional and can also be paired with either gearbox. At full bore, a V8-powered Mustang needed only 4.6 seconds to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in Edmunds’ testing.
Starting price: $34,645 Fuel economy: 17-25 mpg combined
2023 FORD BRONCO How did a midsize SUV sneak into this list of convertibles? Available in two- and four-door configurations, the 2023 Ford Bronco has a removable soft top or hardtop available across its numerous trims. You can even take off the doors if you want the ultimate open-air experience.
Available with a turbocharged four-cylinder or turbocharged V6, the bulky Bronco doesn’t feel unruly during city or highway driving. Like its direct rival, the Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco also has tenacious off-road capabilities. You can enjoy all the sun and fresh air a convertible provides and continue your adventuring even when paved roads come to an end.
Starting price: $36,390 Fuel economy: 15-20 mpg combined
2023 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Another iconic sports car available as a convertible, the Chevrolet Corvette has a mid-engine layout and room for two onboard. Significantly less expensive than the Porsche 911, the latest Corvette’s flashy exterior looks like it belongs to an exotic car costing two or three times its price. During testing, Edmunds praised the acceleration of the “bonkers fast” Corvette as well as its refined ride and sharp handling.
While getting in and out can take some dexterity, the cabin is otherwise pretty roomy and boasts a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Chevrolet is also offering a convertible version of its new Z06, which is the best way to listen to that model’s thrilling V8 soundtrack.
Starting price: $73,395 Fuel economy: 14-19 mpg combined
2023 PORSCHE 911 CABRIOLET From behind the wheel, the Porsche 911 reminds you how decades of precise engineering and evolution have resulted in a sports car that feels completely dialed into the driver. Grip and handling are superb, yet the Porsche 911 is still plenty refined and comfortable enough for a daily commute. Granted, its six-figure starting price demands plenty of overtime to afford one.
Another big draw to the 911 is the wide variety of available configurations. They start at a base Carrera Cabriolet and max out at the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet. There are seemingly limitless ways to customize your Porsche too. All-wheel drive is available should you want to make your 911 convertible a year-round machine.
Starting price: $128,850 Fuel economy: 16-21 mpg combined
EDMUNDS SAYS: Summer approaches and convertible season is about to be in full bloom. Open-air vehicles like the rugged Ford Bronco, lithe Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster, and rapid Chevrolet Corvette prove sun-soaked driving adventures are still available.
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This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds.
Nick Kurczewski is a contributor at Edmunds and is on Twitter