Top 10 Convertibles 2022 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Porsche 718 Boxster

The 718 Boxster wins Best Overall because it delivers the sharpest open-top handling under $100,000, with mid-engine balance no rival matches. The base 2.0-liter turbo flat-four makes 300 horsepower and hits 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds, while the GTS 4.0's naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six produces 394 hp. A standard six-speed manual or optional seven-speed PDK sends power to the rear wheels, and the power soft-top folds in roughly nine seconds.

This is for the driver who prizes engagement above all else, trading away some low-end torque for chassis perfection. Compared to the Corvette below, it is slower in a straight line but far more rewarding on a backroad. Options inflate the price quickly, and the base four-cylinder sounds muted next to the six. If you want the purest roadster experience short of six figures, this is it.

2. Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible

The Corvette ranks second because its supercar acceleration and retractable hardtop make it the performance bargain of the group. Its 6.2-liter V8 makes 490 horsepower, or 495 with the performance exhaust, and the Z51 package launches it to 60 mph in a stunning 2.9 seconds. The power hardtop stows in about 16 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph, providing coupe-like refinement with the roof up.

This is for buyers who want maximum straight-line speed and a secure hardtop for under $75,000. It trades away the Boxster's steering feel and manual transmission for brutal pace and everyday quiet. Cabin plastics trail the European rivals, and there is no manual option. Compared to the 911 above, it undercuts the Porsche by a fortune while embarrassing cars costing twice as much.

3. Porsche 911 Cabriolet

The 911 Cabriolet ranks third as the do-everything luxury sports convertible, blending grand-touring comfort with serious pace. The Carrera's 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six makes 379 horsepower and reaches 60 mph in four seconds flat, while the Carrera S climbs to 443 hp and a 3.3-second sprint. An eight-speed PDK automatic and rear-wheel drive are standard, with all-wheel drive optional on Carrera 4 models.

This is for buyers who need a daily-driver convertible that can also attack a canyon road, trading away the Boxster's raw edge for a more refined, usable cabin. The small rear seats double as luggage shelves, adding flexibility the two-seaters lack. Pricing escalates steeply with options, and it is heavier and less playful than the 718. Compared to the Corvette below, it costs far more but delivers superior build quality and a more complete grand-touring experience.

4. BMW Z4 M40i

The Z4 M40i ranks fourth because it brings German roadster appeal at a friendlier price than the Porsches, with a strong turbo inline-six. The M40i's 3.0-liter engine makes 382 horsepower and sprints to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, while the sDrive30i's 2.0-liter turbo-four produces 255 hp. Every Z4 is rear-wheel drive, and the M40i can be had with a six-speed manual through the Handschalter package.

This is for roadster buyers who want German build quality and strong performance without the Porsche premium. It trades away the Boxster's telepathic steering and mid-engine balance for a more comfortable ride and a lower entry price. The base four-cylinder lacks drama, and the interior is familiar BMW rather than special. Compared to the Miata below, it costs nearly twice as much but offers far more power and refinement.

5. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The MX-5 Miata earns Best Value because it delivers the purest fun-per-dollar in convertibles, with no asterisk. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft, darting to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds with the soft-top. A slick six-speed manual is standard, and rear-wheel drive is the only layout, exactly as a roadster should be.

This is for budget-conscious enthusiasts who want maximum joy on a backroad, trading away trunk space, cabin room, and straight-line power. The cabin is snug and the trunk is tiny, but the grin-per-mile is unbeatable. Compared to the Z4 above, it is far less powerful and refined but more engaging and a fraction of the cost. Mazda's strong reliability record adds to the value story, making it the smartest money in the class.

6. Ford Mustang GT Convertible

The Mustang GT Convertible ranks sixth because it offers the most affordable V8 thunder in this guide, with genuine muscle and four-seat practicality. Its 5.0-liter V8 makes 450 horsepower and 420 lb-ft, rushing to 60 mph in roughly 4.0 seconds through a 10-speed automatic. The EcoBoost Convertible, with a 2.3-liter turbo-four making 310 hp, starts at just $21,900 for budget buyers.

This is for buyers who want V8 sound and straight-line speed with room for passengers, trading away the Miata's nimble handling for brute force and space. It is heavier and softer than a dedicated roadster, and there is no manual on the V8 convertible. Compared to the Z4 above, it costs less and offers more power but lacks the BMW's roadster precision. The insulated top keeps the cabin quiet, making it a practical daily driver.

7. BMW 4 Series Convertible

The 4 Series Convertible ranks seventh because it is a well-rounded four-seat luxury cruiser with real pace and a lighter fabric top. The 430i uses a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 255 horsepower, while the M440i brings a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six worth 382 hp. Both offer rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive, paired with an eight-speed automatic.

This is for buyers who need to carry four people in comfort while still enjoying open-air driving, trading away the Mustang's V8 muscle for a more refined, athletic experience. The M440i's inline-six is smooth and strong, but the polarizing large grille styling may not appeal to everyone. It is less engaging than a two-seat roadster but far more versatile. Compared to the Mercedes below, it offers more power and sportier handling at a lower price.

8. Mercedes-Benz C 300 Cabriolet

The C 300 Cabriolet ranks eighth because it is the plush, quiet open-air luxury pick, prioritizing calm over sharpness. Its 2.0-liter turbo-four pairs with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to make 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. The reviewed example comes with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic.

This is for buyers who value serenity and craftsmanship over backroad agility, trading away the 4 Series' sportiness for a more luxurious, quiet ride. It is less athletic than the BMW or Audi, and the carryover platform feels its age. AIRSCARF and AIRCAP extend the top-down season, which is a unique advantage. Compared to the Audi below, it costs more but offers a plusher interior and more standard comfort features.

9. Audi A5 Cabriolet

The A5 Cabriolet ranks ninth because it leans on standard quattro all-wheel drive and top-tier interior quality for all-weather confidence. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder uses mild-hybrid assist to make 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic feeds power to all four wheels, so you can deploy it confidently in rain or cold.

This is for buyers who drive year-round and need traction in all conditions, trading away the Mercedes' plush ride for a more secure, planted feel. It is more secure than thrilling, and there is no manual transmission option. Compared to the C 300 above, it costs less and offers standard all-wheel drive, but the interior is slightly less luxurious. The quattro system is a genuine advantage for wet or snowy climates, making it a smart all-season choice.

10. MINI Cooper Convertible

The MINI Cooper Convertible rounds out the list because it offers charming, affordable urban top-down fun with a low entry price and unique character. The Cooper S uses a 2.0-liter turbo-four making 189 horsepower, good for a 0-60 of about 6.2 seconds, while the John Cooper Works version starts at $31,800. Drive goes to the front wheels, setting it apart from the rear-drive roadsters here.

This is for urban drivers who want personality and a low price, trading away the Audi's all-weather grip and refinement for a more playful, characterful experience. Front-wheel drive lacks roadster purity, and the rear seats and trunk are token at best. Compared to the A5 above, it costs far less and is more fun in the city but less capable on the highway.

How we ranked these

We ranked 2022 convertibles using six weighted criteria: open-top driving joy (30%), performance (20%), value (15%), top mechanism and refinement (15%), daily usability (10%), and reliability (10%). Data came from road tests and owner feedback from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and U.S. News. Prices reflect 2022 MSRPs, and specifications are specific to that model year.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, subjective styling opinions, and marketing hype. We also excluded any consideration of resale value or long-term ownership costs beyond reliability, as these are less relevant for a model-year comparison. Raw horsepower was downweighted because real-world top-down enjoyment depends more on balance and steering feel than on peak output.

What to look for

When choosing among these, prioritize the top mechanism's ease and speed, structural rigidity (test for cowl shake), wind management (look for deflectors and acoustic tops), and trunk space with the roof stowed. Drivetrain matters: rear-wheel drive gives classic roadster feel, while all-wheel drive (Audi, BMW) adds year-round confidence. Check resale and reliability records, as Mazda, Porsche, and Chevrolet hold value well.

The biggest mistake buyers make is obsessing over horsepower. A 181-hp Miata is more rewarding on a backroad than many cars with double the output. Top-down joy comes from balance, steering, and the sensation of wind, not a spec-sheet number. Also, don't ignore the cost of insurance and maintenance, which are often higher for convertibles.

Related questions

What is the best overall convertible for 2022?

The Porsche 718 Boxster is the best overall convertible for 2022. Its mid-engine layout delivers exceptional balance and steering feel, and the available flat-six engine provides a glorious soundtrack. No other convertible under six figures matches its combination of driving joy, capability, and everyday usability, making it the benchmark for open-top sports cars.

What is the best value convertible for 2022?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best value convertible for 2022. Starting around $27,300, it offers the purest open-top driving experience for a fraction of the cost of premium roadsters. Its light weight, perfect balance, and slick manual transmission deliver more fun per dollar than any other car on this list, proving that joy doesn't require a huge budget.

Which 2022 convertible is fastest to 60 mph?

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible with the Z51 package is the fastest to 60 mph, achieving the sprint in about 2.9 seconds. Its mid-engine 6.2-liter V8 produces 490 horsepower (495 with performance exhaust), delivering supercar acceleration for under $75,000, embarrassing cars costing twice as much.

Which 2022 convertibles seat four people?

Several 2022 convertibles offer rear seating: the Ford Mustang, BMW 4 Series, Mercedes-Benz C 300, Audi A5, Porsche 911 (small rear seats), and MINI Cooper. The Porsche 718 Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette, BMW Z4, and Mazda MX-5 Miata are strict two-seaters. If you need to carry passengers, choose one of the four-seat options.

Are soft-tops or retractable hardtops better for convertibles?

Soft-tops are lighter, cheaper, and free up trunk space, which improves handling and cargo room. Retractable hardtops, like the Corvette's, offer better security and coupe-like refinement with the roof up but add weight and cost. The choice depends on your priorities: soft-tops for driving dynamics, hardtops for comfort and security.

What should I look for when buying a used 2022 convertible?

Check the top mechanism for smooth operation and leaks, and inspect the trunk space with the roof stowed. Test for cowl shake on rough roads, indicating structural rigidity. Look for a quality wind deflector and acoustic top. Also, review the car's maintenance history, especially for the top and any performance components, and factor in higher insurance costs.

Is the Ford Mustang GT Convertible a good choice for 2022?

Yes, the Ford Mustang GT Convertible is an excellent choice for 2022 if you want V8 muscle with four-seat practicality. Its 5.0-liter V8 produces 450 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in about 4.0 seconds. With a starting price under $37,000, it offers the most affordable V8 thunder, plus a usable rear seat and large trunk.

FAQ

What is the best overall convertible for 2022?

The Porsche 718 Boxster is the best overall convertible for 2022. Its mid-engine layout delivers exceptional balance and steering feel, and the available flat-six engine provides a glorious soundtrack. No other convertible under six figures matches its combination of driving joy, capability, and everyday usability, making it the benchmark for open-top sports cars.

What is the best value convertible for 2022?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best value convertible for 2022. Starting around $27,300, it offers the purest open-top driving experience for a fraction of the cost of premium roadsters. Its light weight, perfect balance, and slick manual transmission deliver more fun per dollar than any other car on this list, proving that joy doesn't require a huge budget.

Which 2022 convertible is fastest to 60 mph?

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible with the Z51 package is the fastest to 60 mph, achieving the sprint in about 2.9 seconds. Its mid-engine 6.2-liter V8 produces 490 horsepower (495 with performance exhaust), delivering supercar acceleration for under $75,000, embarrassing cars costing twice as much.

Which 2022 convertibles seat four people?

Several 2022 convertibles offer rear seating: the Ford Mustang, BMW 4 Series, Mercedes-Benz C 300, Audi A5, Porsche 911 (small rear seats), and MINI Cooper. The Porsche 718 Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette, BMW Z4, and Mazda MX-5 Miata are strict two-seaters. If you need to carry passengers, choose one of the four-seat options.

Are soft-tops or retractable hardtops better for convertibles?

Soft-tops are lighter, cheaper, and free up trunk space, which improves handling and cargo room. Retractable hardtops, like the Corvette's, offer better security and coupe-like refinement with the roof up but add weight and cost. The choice depends on your priorities: soft-tops for driving dynamics, hardtops for comfort and security.

What should I look for when buying a used 2022 convertible?

Check the top mechanism for smooth operation and leaks, and inspect the trunk space with the roof stowed. Test for cowl shake on rough roads, indicating structural rigidity. Look for a quality wind deflector and acoustic top. Also, review the car's maintenance history, especially for the top and any performance components, and factor in higher insurance costs.

Is the Ford Mustang GT Convertible a good choice for 2022?

Yes, the Ford Mustang GT Convertible is an excellent choice for 2022 if you want V8 muscle with four-seat practicality. Its 5.0-liter V8 produces 450 horsepower, reaching 60 mph in about 4.0 seconds. With a starting price under $37,000, it offers the most affordable V8 thunder, plus a usable rear seat and large trunk.

What is the most comfortable convertible for 2022?

The Mercedes-Benz C 300 Cabriolet is the most comfortable convertible for 2022. Its multilayer acoustic soft-top, available AIRCAP wind deflector, and AIRSCARF neck heating make top-down driving comfortable in more weather. The cabin is hushed and beautifully finished, prioritizing serenity over sportiness, making it ideal for grand touring.

Which 2022 convertible has all-wheel drive?

The Audi A5 Cabriolet comes standard with quattro all-wheel drive, and the BMW 4 Series offers xDrive as an option. The Mercedes-Benz C 300 Cabriolet can be equipped with 4MATIC. These provide confident traction in rain or cold, making them good year-round choices, though they are less playful than rear-drive roadsters.

What is the cheapest 2022 convertible?

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible is the cheapest 2022 convertible, starting at $21,900. It features a 2.3-liter turbo-four with 310 horsepower. The Mazda MX-5 Miata starts at $27,300, and the MINI Cooper Convertible at $27,900. These offer affordable open-top fun with different driving characteristics.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/porsche/718-boxster
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/chevrolet/corvette/2022/
• https://www.edmunds.com/porsche/911-cabriolet/2022/
• https://www.kbb.com/bmw/z4/2022/
• https://www.usnews.com/cars-trucks/mazda/mx-5-miata/2022
• https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/mustang/2022/
• https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/4-series-convertible/2022/
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/mercedes-benz/c-class/2022/
• https://www.kbb.com/audi/a5/2022/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/mini/convertible/2022/

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