Convertibles are some of the most rewarding cars to drive. Even a terrible car can be enjoyable when the roof comes down. However, Consumer Reports is not typically interested in such frivolous things. That said, every convertible roadster CR tested for 2022 landed in the recommended pile. The bigger convertibles were a different story. So, is Consumer Reports saying you should buy a convertible? 

What is the best convertible car? 

According to Consumer Reports and the rest of the world, the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata took the crown as the highest-ranked convertible. But following very closely behind is the 2022 Porsche 718 Boxster. The 2022 BMW Z4 followed in third place with a little distance between them. 

Although not they didn’t do terribly, the 2022 Ford Mustang and 2022 Chevy Camaros are the only convertibles that CR didn’t love. Despite the lack of recommendation, CR still gave both bigger convertibles a great score for the driving test. The reason these two were held back was for the murky reliability history of each model. 

Why don’t we make more convertible cars? 

As you may have noticed, Consumer Reports may recommend most of the convertibles it tested, but there have only been five so far. This doesn’t reflect on CR or even the chip shortage; this is due to the unfortunate fact that car companies don’t make many convertibles these days. 

Thanks to the Chrysler LeBaron, we still get to see the occasional convertible make us jealous on nice days. All three of the tested roadsters have a very specific and passionate group of followers. While there is nothing “cult” about Porsche and BMW (please read with a hint of sarcasm), the Mazda Miata is a bit of a cult classic. It’s the King of “if you know, you know” cars. The fastest and most precise drivers I’ve ever known all hold the Miata in high regard. It isn’t the most powerful or attractive car in the world, but it is one of the best cars for those who really want to learn a thing or two about driving. 

2022 Porsche 718 Boxster 

The Porsche 718 Boxster is a special bird because of its name. In the car world, specifically the Porsche world, the Boxster name comes with a cheap and negative connotation. Its 911 and Cayman big siblings create such a shadow that the little Boxster often struggles to be seen. However, CR sees it for what it is; a delicate, nimble, and sharp little convertible that provides plenty of smiles per mile for those willing to break the mold. 

2022 BMW Z4

Lastly, the BMW Z4, not unlike the Porsche, can sometimes have half-cocked sorts of feelings surrounding it from the BMW folks. That said, one of the sharpest, most thrilling, and most aggressive cars I’ve ever driven was a BMW Z4 M Coupe. While lopping the roof off may have softened the car a bit, it would have ultimately been better for it. 

Consumer Reports thinks you should get a convertible

Sure, driving a bad convertible is still fun because it’s a still convertible. But the joy doesn’t continue if the car breaks down. Thankfully, Consumer Reports also vetted the reliability of these roadsters, and aside from them being fun, they are also decent cars. 

Consumer Reports is not one to flex their priorities because they like a vehicle. In fact, it almost seems like the more luxury lifestyle cars and trucks can get graded a touch harder. This proves that these convertible cars are worthwhile. It sure feels good to see a car value both form and function.