Fancy a convertible but need space for more than just one passenger? You’re not alone. The dream of open-top motoring often crashes into the reality of needing back seats for the kids, the dog, or just a couple of mates. For years, the choice seemed to be between a fun but impractical two-seater or a sensible but staid family car. It felt like you couldn’t have your cake and eat it.
But what if you could? The four-seat convertible offers the perfect compromise, blending wind-in-the-hair thrills with a welcome dose of everyday usability. From premium German cruisers and iconic American muscle cars to chic city runabouts, there’s a surprising amount of choice out there. These are the cars that let you drop the roof for a sunny B-road blast on Sunday, then do the school run in complete comfort on Monday.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy. For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Best 4-seater convertibles in 2026
- 2009-2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- 2012-2019 Audi A3
- 2013-2019 BMW 4 Series
- 2009-2013 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet
- 2009-2015 MINI Convertible
- 2026 Porsche 911
- 2008-2020 Fiat 500
- 2011-2017 Bentley Continental
- 2026 Ford Mustang
- 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler
1. 2009-2015 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A great all-rounder that does most things well | The entry-level diesels are weak |
| The estate is fantastically practical | A BMW 5 Series is more exciting to drive |
| Most versions are comfortable and refined | Repairs can be very costly |
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet from this era is a masterclass in comfortable, refined open-top motoring. It brings all the strengths of the E-Class saloon – a high-quality interior, superb long-distance comfort, and a prestigious badge – to the four-seat convertible market. While you might expect a drop-top to be cramped, the E-Class is surprisingly roomy for a car of its type, making it a genuinely usable four-seater for those who don't want to compromise on space or luxury just to enjoy the sunshine.
While the E-Class range was dominated by diesel engines, it’s the petrols that really suit the character of the Cabriolet. The range kicks off with the 181bhp E200 CGI, which provides smooth and adequate performance for relaxed cruising. For a bit more urgency, the E250 CGI offers 201bhp, while those seeking proper grand touring pace can look to the V6-powered E350 CGI with 288bhp or even the storming 5.5-litre V8 in the E500.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For those who value comfort and refinement, the mk4 E-Class has much to recommend it. Its styling has a prestigious quality to it, as does the cabin, which is remarkably spacious and boasts a reassuring solidity." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Mercedes-Benz E-Class review
2. 2012-2019 Audi A3
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The interior is high-quality, and practical if you choose the five-door Sportback | More expensive to buy than mainstream cars with similar abilities |
| Excellent fuel economy from the diesel-engined models | S line versions have a firm ride |
| The RS3 has serious performance credentials | Performance models are pricey to run |
The Audi A3 has long been a top choice for those wanting a premium family car, and the Cabriolet version adds a welcome dose of wind-in-the-hair fun. It’s a proper four-seater, so you can share the open-air experience with friends or family, and it wraps it all up in a package that oozes quality. The interior is a particular highlight, with a classy design and top-notch materials that feel a cut above mainstream rivals. It’s the sensible, stylish way to enjoy drop-top motoring without sacrificing everyday usability.
Under the skin, the A3 Cabriolet is a comfortable and refined cruiser. While S line models can feel a bit firm, most versions soak up bumps nicely, making for relaxed progress. There’s a wide range of engines, but the 1.4-litre or later 1.5-litre TFSI petrols are a great happy medium, offering punchy performance and impressive fuel economy of nearly 60mpg. All models come well-equipped, with a slick infotainment screen and Bluetooth as standard, reinforcing the A3's credentials as a sophisticated and desirable four-seat convertible.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Audi A3 is a great premium choice, and in Cabriolet form it’s an understated, classy vehicle that oozes quality. There are plenty of choices within the range, so you can pick the version that best suits your needs." - Rebecca Jackson, contributor
3. 2013-2019 BMW 4 Series
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Drives with the verve you'd expect of a BMW | The xDrive four-wheel-drive models are more expensive to buy and run |
| Sharp looks, whichever body style you choose | Iffy reputation for reliability |
| Excellent engines combine performance and efficiency | Watch out for corrosion on the alloy wheels |
The BMW 4 Series Convertible took the sharp looks and brilliant driving dynamics of the 3 Series Coupe and added a dose of open-air fun. Unlike many rivals that use a fabric hood, the 4 Series features a three-piece folding metal roof. This makes it feel much more like a fixed-head coupe when the weather turns, offering better refinement and security. The roof can be lowered in just 20 seconds at speeds of up to 8mph, letting you make the most of any sudden sunny spells. While it is a genuine four-seater, the rear seats are best reserved for shorter trips or children.
Even with the extra weight of the folding roof mechanism, the 4 Series Convertible is still a joy to drive, with sharp steering and a range of excellent engines. The 420d diesel, with 187bhp, is a particularly popular choice, blending strong performance with impressive fuel economy. For those wanting more power, the six-cylinder petrols like the 302bhp 435i offer thrilling acceleration. The only real compromise for all that drop-top style is boot space; shrinking from 370 litres to just 220 litres when you stow the roof for wind-in-the-hair motoring.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The BMW 4 Series is one of the most desirable premium cars out there, and with good reason. It’s got sharp looks, strong engines and drives really well across the range." - Phill Tromans, contributor
Read our full BMW 4 Series review
4. 2009-2013 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sensibly and thoughtfully designed inside and out | A bit of a conservative choice |
| Good fun to drive – especially GTI | Reliability concerns, especially DSG gearboxes |
| Decent long-distance refinement | Not the most practical car in its class |
The Volkswagen Golf has long been a byword for sensible, well-built family transport, and the Cabriolet version adds a welcome dose of top-down fun to the package. As the last open-topped Golf, it combines the familiar solid feel and refined driving experience of the hatchback with a quick-folding fabric roof. The standard car’s well-weighted steering and comfortable ride translate perfectly to the convertible, making it a relaxing cruiser. While there are plenty of engines to choose from, the 104bhp 1.2-litre petrol offers a great blend of brisk performance and decent fuel economy.
As a four-seat convertible, the Golf Cabriolet is a practical choice, though it's best to think of it as a 2+2. While front passengers have plenty of space, the rear seats are a bit tight for adults on longer journeys but are perfectly fine for kids. One of the Cabriolet’s biggest selling points is its boot. At 250 litres, it might not sound huge, but crucially, that space is unaffected whether the roof is up or down. This is a rare and hugely useful feature in the convertible class, meaning you don’t have to choose between enjoying the sun and bringing your luggage with you.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Conservative choice though it may be, a mainstream Golf represents mid-level motoring at its refined and well-executed best." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Volkswagen Golf review
5. 2009-2015 MINI Convertible
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.5% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Really good fun to drive | Rear seats are a squeeze for two adults |
| Cooper S and JCW are quick | The boot is very small |
| Stylish looks have hardly aged | Some reliability gremlins |
Is there a more recognisable shape on UK roads than the MINI? This second-generation version of the BMW-era car dials up the fun factor, especially in convertible form. It’s a proper four-seater, and while the rear seats are best reserved for kids or short trips, they add a layer of practicality missing from two-seater rivals. The real joy is in the driving; its go-kart-like handling puts a smile on your face on any B-road. For the best thrills, look for the Cooper S model with its 175bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, or the even more potent 208bhp John Cooper Works (JCW) version.
Of course, choosing a convertible means making some compromises, and the MINI is no exception. Boot space is tight, to say the least, so you’ll need to pack light for any weekend trips away. The ride can also be quite firm, particularly on models fitted with the larger, more stylish alloy wheels. Inside, the retro-themed cabin is a love-it-or-hate-it affair with its giant central speedometer, but it’s certainly distinctive. Equipment levels vary wildly, so check carefully to see if a car has the desirable 'Pepper' or 'Chili' packs, which add essentials like air-conditioning and Bluetooth.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The MINI R56 is a cracking small car that’ll put a smile on the face of anyone that drives one. The performance models particularly can elicit hoots of delight." - Phill Tromans, contributor
Read our full MINI Convertible review
6. 2026 Porsche 911
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 26.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hugely enjoyable to drive | Expensive to fuel |
| Easy to live with everyday | High insurance costs |
| Breadth of choice that rivals can't match | Some purists complain that most of the engine range is now turbocharged |
The Porsche 911 has long been the exception to the rule that sports cars can't be practical. While many rivals are strict two-seaters, the 911 offers a 2+2 layout, with a pair of rear seats perfect for children, making it a genuine four-seat option. This practicality extends to the Cabriolet models, which blend thrilling open-top motoring with everyday usability. You won't be sacrificing much luggage room for the convertible roof, either; the 132-litre boot is located in the nose of the car, and the rear seats can be folded down for extra storage space when you're not carrying passengers. It’s this blend of excitement and usability that makes the 911 Cabriolet such a compelling choice.
When it comes to the driving experience, the 911 is legendary, and the Cabriolet is no different. Even the entry-level Carrera delivers exhilarating pace from its turbocharged flat-six engine, paired with Porsche's slick eight-speed PDK automatic gearbox. The steering is sharp and full of feedback, and the car feels incredibly agile and balanced, encouraging you to enjoy every twist and turn in the road. Dropping the fabric roof simply adds another layer to the experience, letting the sound of that iconic engine fill the cabin. It’s a car that proves you don’t have to compromise on driving fun to get four seats and a folding roof.
The CarGurus Verdict: "There’s a reason that the Porsche 911 Carrera is such an iconic, successful sports car, and that’s simply because it’s so good. It’s not so singular in its focus that it’s not able to be used as a daily driver, and the spacious cabin – for a sports car at least – makes it a practical choice." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Porsche 911 review
7. 2008-2020 Fiat 500
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cute and cheerful retro styling | Cramped for people and luggage |
| Lively to drive around town | Unreliable dual-clutch auto transmission |
| Wide range of colours, upholsteries and finishes | Noisy on the motorway |
The Fiat 500C brings a dose of sunshine to the city car class with its full-length retractable canvas roof. It’s less of a full convertible and more of a giant sunroof, but it delivers that wind-in-the-hair feeling without compromising the car’s iconic silhouette. It’s a joy to nip around town in, feeling agile and brisk, especially with the characterful 84bhp TwinAir engine, though this can get a bit noisy on the motorway. The 500C is all about style and fun, offering a cheerful alternative to more conventional drop-tops.
That focus on style does mean making a few practical sacrifices. While it is technically a four-seater, the rear seats are very cramped and best reserved for short trips or children. The boot is also tiny at just 185 litres, so packing for a weekend away requires some careful thought. What you lose in space, however, you gain in personality. The cabin is a riot of colour and retro design, with body-coloured dashboard panels and fun fabrics that make every journey feel like an occasion. It’s a car you buy with your heart, not your head.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Style, charm, cheek, emotional attachment, this is the stuff that makes the Fiat 500 so wonderfully appealing to buyers keen to avoid life’s mundane burdens." - Brett Fraser, contributor
8. 2011-2017 Bentley Continental
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.2%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautifully made cabin | Disappointing reliability |
| Combines comfort and extreme performance | Wallet-wilting running costs |
| Available as a coupe and a convertible | Not as agile as an Aston Martin DB11 |
The Bentley Continental GTC is the very definition of a high-end, four-seat convertible. It’s a proper grand tourer, designed to cross continents in supreme style and comfort, but with a serious performance punch when you want it. Inside, you're surrounded by a cabin hand-crafted in Crewe, with swathes of leather and wood that feel truly special. Under the bonnet, you have a choice of engines, from the mighty 6.0-litre W12 with 567bhp to the lighter, more agile 4.0-litre V8, introduced in 2012, which still packs a hefty 500bhp.
While Bentley calls it a four-seater, those rear seats are best reserved for small children or, more realistically, extra luggage. Still, for a convertible, the boot is a very usable 235 litres, which is more than enough for a stylish weekend away. It's a car that makes every journey feel like an occasion. Just be prepared for the running costs; fuelling and maintaining a car of this calibre doesn't come cheap, but for the sheer sense of occasion, many will feel it's a price worth paying.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Continental GT and the GTC are in many ways fantastic cars – simultaneously modern and a throwback to another era of driving." - Phill Tromans, contributor
Read our full Bentley Continental review
9. 2026 Ford Mustang
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 25.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fabulous old-school V8 of GT models | High running costs |
| Charismatic looks and driving experience | Mustangs with the four-cylinder engine have less character |
| Bullitt edition is sharp to drive | Cramped rear seats |
When it comes to wind-in-the-hair motoring for four, the Mustang Convertible makes a strong case. Its electrically-powered fabric roof is a doddle to operate; just release a catch, press a button, and eight seconds later you’re open to the elements. Unlike some rivals, the boot space isn’t compromised when you go topless, offering a usable 332 litres whether the roof is up or down. While Ford does call it a four-seater, it’s best to think of the rear seats as occasional spots for adults on short trips, though kids will be perfectly happy back there.
What the Mustang delivers in spades is character, and nothing exemplifies this more than the 5.0-litre V8 engine. It’s a proper muscle car motor, with a bellowing soundtrack and a brawny power delivery that never fails to entertain. Post-2018 facelift models are the ones to go for if the budget allows, as they get an uprated V8 with 443bhp and a much-improved infotainment system. It might be a big, old-school bruiser at heart, but that’s a huge part of its undeniable charm and sense of fun.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Great to look at and entertaining to drive, the Mustang is everything a muscle car should be. For the full muscle car experience, the 5.0-litre V8 that powers the GT model is a must." - Dan Prosser, car reviewer
Read our full Ford Mustang review
10. 2007-2017 Jeep Wrangler
CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 26.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A proper go-anywhere 4x4 | Crude and outdated on the road |
| Characterful to look at and to drive | Surprisingly small inside |
| Reliable 2.8-litre diesel | Hugely expensive to fuel |
The Jeep Wrangler brings a unique, rugged flavour to the four-seat convertible market. Unlike more conventional drop-tops, both the three-door and five-door 'Unlimited' models offer an open-air experience. The three-door features a folding vinyl roof, while the larger Unlimited has removable roof panels. For the ultimate wind-in-the-hair feeling, the windscreen can be folded flat and the doors can be taken off entirely. However, practicality is a compromise for this iconic style; the interior is a tight squeeze, and boot space in the three-door model is particularly limited, so packing for a weekend away with four people will require some careful thought.
On the road, the Wrangler’s military-runaround roots are clear. The ride can be bouncy, and its steering feels vague compared to more car-like rivals. Under the bonnet, the 2.8-litre diesel engine is muscular and robust, but it’s also loud and unrefined, which might detract from the serene open-top experience some buyers are looking for. The alternative V6 petrol engines are thirsty, with the pre-2011 3.8-litre version lacking power. It’s a car that offers immense character, but this comes at the expense of the refinement you’d find in a typical convertible.
The CarGurus Verdict: "While objective tests in the motoring media typically give the Wrangler a sound drubbing, owners who are of the Jeep mindset refute that it’s a bad car. They see it as an iconic machine and regard its foibles as the character that has been bred out of modern SUVs." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Jeep Wrangler review
FAQ
What's the difference between a hard-top and a soft-top convertible?
A soft-top uses a fabric roof, which is lighter and often simpler, preserving more boot space. A hard-top, like the one on the BMW 4 Series, uses folding metal panels. This makes the car quieter and more secure with the roof up, effectively turning it into a coupe, but the mechanism is heavier and takes up more boot space when folded away.
Are four-seat convertibles practical for families?
They can be, but it depends on the car and the size of your family. Most are best described as '2+2s', meaning the rear seats are better suited to children or for short trips for adults. Cars like the Mercedes E-Class are more spacious, while a MINI Convertible or Fiat 500C will be a squeeze. Always check the boot space, too, as it can be limited, especially with the roof down.
Is a convertible a good choice for UK weather?
Absolutely. Modern convertibles are far better than their predecessors. With the roof up, they are well-insulated and just as weatherproof as a regular car, making them perfectly usable all year round. The advantage is that their roofs often fold away in seconds, so you can make the most of any sudden sunny spell.
Which four-seat convertible is best for driving fun?
For pure driving thrills, the Porsche 911 is in a class of its own, blending incredible performance with everyday usability. If you want something with go-kart-like handling for B-road fun, the MINI Convertible is a great choice. And for old-school muscle car character, nothing beats the sound and feel of the Ford Mustang GT's V8 engine.
Do convertibles cost more to run?
They can do. Insurance can sometimes be a little higher than for the equivalent coupe. You should also factor in maintenance for the folding roof mechanism to keep it in good working order. Fuel and tax costs will depend entirely on the engine you choose – an economical diesel Audi A3 will be much cheaper to run than a V12 Bentley Continental.
What should I look for when buying a used convertible?
The roof is the most important thing to check. Operate it several times to ensure it moves smoothly and without any hesitation or worrying noises. Inspect the fabric for any rips or tears, and check all the rubber seals for any signs of perishing. It's also wise to check the carpets and boot for any dampness or musty smells that could indicate a leak.
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