Affordable Convertibles To Jumpstart Your Summer Fun

This summer, your dreams of driving it around in a swanky ride with your top-down might be closer than ever. You don’t have to spend big bucks to get into a fun convertible. We’ve got a list of some of the best affordable convertibles to jumpstart your summer.

From sporty vehicles to spacious ones and everything in between, there’s a convertible style for every type of driver, especially those on a bit of a tight budget.

1. Mazda Miata

In the world of convertibles, it doesn’t get any better than a Mazda Miata. You can have endless amounts of fun as you shift around in this compact convertible. Zooming through the city, up and down mountains, and all-around back streets make the Mazda Miata hands down one of the best convertibles to shop around for during the summer.

For those on a budget, you’ll always get a better price if you shop used. Plus, Miatas are one of those vehicles that are fun to drive no matter the year. If you want to go full force, then check out the latest Miata model. The two-seater 2022 Mazda MX-5 comes in three different trim options. The base model 2.0 lI4 engine delivers great fuel economy. With a starting MSRP of 28,665, this is certainly one of the cheapest convertibles to get into. You also have great fuel economy with 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway.

2. MINI Cooper Convertible

The 2022 mini convertible is a great vehicle for those who want comfort, space, and of course affordability. The vehicle comes in three different trim levels with the S style being the best-selling model. It features a 2.0 L I4 turbo engine and delivers 23 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.

This 4-seater feels like a really compact but fun convertible for those who are looking to cruise around with friends. Despite its unique shape, it’s still fun to drive. For families with children, the back seats lend really well to young kids and there’s enough cargo room to tote around all your belongings for a fun day out.

Other standard features include rear parking sensors, remote engine start, forward collision warning, brake assist, and much more. Starting at an MSRP of 28,750, this is a well-priced convertible that you can enjoy for summers to come. The model also offers a four-year 50k mile basic warranty.

3. Chevrolet Camaro

Keep it iconic with a Chevy Camaro convertible. While this muscle car is better known for its sedan style, the convertible trim offers everything you need for a fun summer car. While Camaros are known for their unmatched power and gnarly growth, you can steer clear of the impressive V8 by opting for the base 2.0 turbocharged engine model.

Of course, you can always kick up performance by opting for the upgraded convertible LT1 which features a 6.2 L V8 engine. The base model starts at an affordable 26,395, but it really is worth the upgrades if you want to truly experience the power of a Camaro. Highlight features you can look forward to including an infotainment system complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a keyless ignition, brake assist, and much more. There’s also a three-year 36K mile basic warranty on all models.

4. Audi A5

If you’re looking for luxury, but don’t want to break the bank, consider the 2022 Audi A5. As far as luxury vehicles go, you really do get decent affordability with this model. The convertible option is offered alongside its coupe and hatchback models. Under the hood of the convertible model, you’ll find different engine options including a 2.0 L four-cylinder on the base model which pairs with an all-wheel-drive platform. You’ll get pretty decent gas mileage as well with 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway.

Handling it has exceptional thanks to the advanced tech that’s gone into its design. When you’re inside the A5, you’ll get all the fields of luxury thanks to the premium interior. The A5 is pretty compact for being a four-seater convertible, and it still delivers in terms of quick response the way other true compact convertibles do. Great features you can look forward to including heated front seats, parking sensor, leather interior, and more. The A5 also comes with a four-year 50k mile basic warranty. While this convertible has a starting MSRP of 44,995 it is undeniably a private vehicle. However, if you are shopping for luxury, this can be a great car to look into, especially if you shop pre-owned.

5. Honda s2000

Shop one of the most reputable automakers when you’re looking for a great convertible this summer. Honda’s much-loved s2000 was the automaker’s hallmark convertible. While the carmaker discontinued production of the s2000 in 2009, there are rumors that a Type R engine Honda s2000 may be on the horizon. In the meantime, shopping used for an s2000 is the only way to go right now.

The S2000 touted a VTEC engine which helped launch it into the ranks of one of the best sports cars on the market. The models built between 2004 and 2009 were outfitted with a 2.2 L inline 4-cylinder engine. Although you have a powerful engine, drivers do sacrifice in terms of fuel economy. Drivers can look forward to 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. Although it’s not the most eco-conscious convertible, you’ll be able to reap some savings because you’ll have to buy pre-owned. Depending on specs and where you buy, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000. Despite the s2000 being continued, it still holds its rank as being one of the most fun vehicles to zoom around in.

6. Jeep Wrangler

It might not be the first vehicle that comes to mind when you think of convertibles, but it’s certainly one worth looking into. If you love exploring the outdoors, traversing rough terrain, and riding rough, then an open-top Jeep Wrangler might be a great fit for you this summer. The allure of convertibles is the open-air feeling that you get when you drive around town. With removable roofs and doors, a Jeep Wrangler allows you to go beyond that feeling of top-down driving. You really get the sense that you’re immersed in your environment no matter where you drive.

The Wrangler Sports is a great model to start with if you’re looking for affordability. With an MSRP starting at $29,950, you can build a new model just the way you like. There are several engine options you can look forward to including the standard 3.6 L V6, a 3.6 L V6 eTorque, and a 2.0L I4 DOHC DI Turbo engine.

For that true compact convertible feeling, a two-door is a great option to settle with the four-door offers a bit more space. Opting for the standard six-speed manual transmission is the best way to feel the wrangler at its full force.

Find the Right Convertible to Enjoy Your Summer

As you search for the best convertible at an affordable price, remember to shop around with your needs in mind. Of course, the price tag is important to consider, but you’ll want a vehicle that you can absolutely enjoy. If luxury is your aim, look for affordable vehicles like the Audi A5 and others in its class. If sporty and speed are what you’re calling the Miata and Honda’s s2000 might be a better bang for your buck. Know any other fun convertibles for this summer that belong on our list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!