7 Cars That Need to Be Convertibles

Summer’s hot, and/or humid fury is here in full effect. Lazy days at the beach, backyard BBQs, trips to the local pool; it’s time to soak up the sun. This should apply to driving as well, at least, more so than it currently does. In the 1960s, convertible cars were abundant, and the drop-top automobile made a resurgence in the 1990s as well.

But today, convertibles are scarce, and most reside in high-end price brackets. We propose that there needs to be more affordable ways to enjoy top-down motoring. Below, we’ve listed 7 vehicles that could use a convertible option. We’ve focused here on current models already in production for our selections. Here they are in alphabetical order.

Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.

By Mike Schlee

BMW 2 Series

There used to be a 2 Series convertible, so why not bring it back? A 230i could be a new entry point in the luxury brand for fun-in-the-sun motoring, especially as the Z4 disappears. For those that think there might be too much crossover against the 4 Series, there’s already a M2 and M4 that are so close in performance already.

Dodge Charger

America’s muscle car brand has brought out a new Charger in both coupe and four-door configurations. We propose the brand goes a step further and creates a convertible. It would be the return of the great, full-size, 4-passenger, American drop top. With gas or electric powertrains, and the option of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, there could be plenty of choice for consumers.

Land Rover Defender

Here’s another vehicle that used to be a convertible, well, at least the back half. Let’s return to those days! Even if this is a SUV instead of a car, the Defender is already a posh option to the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, so why not also offer a removable roof option to really cover all the bases?

Nissan Z

You may have noticed a theme on this list of vehicles that formerly offered a convertible, should once again. The Nissan Z is no exception. The last three generations of Z were available as a roadster, so why not the current 400 hp one too? We think it would look exceptionally good in full top-down form.

Subaru BRZ/Toyota GR86

This is something people have been begging for since the first generation of the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ. The little rear-wheel drive coupe could take on the Mazda MX-5 Miata more directly if there was a convertible choice. Plus, if engineers could keep the four-seat set-up, it could even offer an advantage over that Mazda roadster.

Toyota 4Runner

We've once again included something that isn't a car. Much like the Land Rover Defender mentioned above, the Toyota 4Runner once had the option to remove the rear section of roof. As a more direct competitor to the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, it feels like not having a convertible option is a missed opportunity. Heck, Toyota even made that cool convertible 4Runner TRD Surf Concept, so someone at the brand seems to agree with us.

Volkswagen GTI/Cabriolet

This might be the biggest stretch as far as convertible conversions, but it’s time for a rebirth of the Volkswagen Cabriolet! Since that iconic '80s/’90s drop top, there has been a New Beetle Convertible, but let’s go back to the Golf platform. In fact, the GTI might be overkill as far as engine and chassis. This could be a way to bring back the regular Golf mechanics to North America.

About Privacy Terms Contact us Advertising Staff and Contributors Copyright Site Map Forums