Top 5 2008 Convertibles

2008 Audi TT Roadster

What we think
Audi redesigned the iconic TT model, making it longer and wider by 5.4", 3.1" respectively. They also stretched the wheelbase by 1.8" creating a sportier drive with more legroom and trunk space. Audi made a conscious decision to keep the purity of soft-top in the TT Roadster. The baseball stitching is back too.

We'd opt for the 2.0 T model; the lighter weight and S tronic transmission provides the perfect open-air combination at a competitive price point.

At a glance
MSRP: Starting at $36,800
Engine and drivetrain: 200 horsepower, 207 lb-ft torque, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine with fuel straight injection, exhaust turbocharger with intercooler, 6-speed S tronic automatic transmission, front-wheel drive.
MPG: 22 City/29 Hwy

2008 BMW 335i Convertible

What we think
The new fourth-generation 3-series convertible features a first-for-BMW power retractable hardtop, room for four comfortably, a 300-horsepower twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine and some of the finest engineering and handling on the road today. The roof opens in 22 seconds and closes in 23 seconds. A rocket ship on wheels with looks to match.

The new 3-Series is the benchmark in segment for a reason and the new twin-turbo 335i sets the standard even higher.

At a glance
MSRP: $49,100
Engine and drivetrain: 300-horsepower, 300 lb-ft Torque DOHC inline 24-valve 6-cylinder, aluminum construction with cast-iron liners, twin-turbochargers, 6-speed manual or steptronic transmissions.
MPG: 20 City/29 Hwy (automatic), 19 City/28 Hwy (manual)

2008 Mazda MX-5 Sport Power Retractable Hardtop

What we think
The itty-bitty rear-wheel drive Mazda MX-5, nee Miata, now cures what ails the long-suffering convertible owner - having to open and close the roof by hand. For 2007, Mazda equipped the MX-5 with a brand-new power hardtop that opens and closes in seconds at the press of a button. The new top only adds about 80 pounds of weight, so the ride quality doesn't suffer.

Mazda solved the conundrum of hardtop or convertible well and at sub-25,000 dollar price to boot. A perfect weekend or second car.

At a glance
MSRP: $26,520
Engine and drivetrain: 166-horsepower, 140 lb-ft torque 2.0L I4, 16 valve engine, six-speed manual transmission.
MPG: 22 City/27 Hwy

2008 Volkswagen Eos 2.0T

What we think
Named after the Greek goddess of dawn, the Eos has a sporty drive, room for four and the proven turbocharged 2.0 inline four found in the GTI. The best feature is the five-piece retractable hardtop with integrated glass sunroof. This roof-lowering maneuver is a marvel of engineering; the front roof panels, including the glass sunroof, slide under the forward roof panels as the entire roof area rises from the C-pillar to what would be a B-pillar and is stored beneath a rear deck, all in 25 seconds. It sounds complicated because it is.

The Eos 2.0 T is somewhat pricey but with that amazing roof and drivetrain package, it feels like a GTI convertible. A grown-up convertible that's fun to drive.

At a glance
MSRP: Starting at $30,110
Engine and drivetrain: 200 horsepower, 207 lb-ft torque, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine with fuel straight injection, exhaust turbocharger with intercooler, six-speed manual or DSG 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic optional.
MPG: 23 City/32 Hwy

2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited

What we think
Nothing says 'American Classic' like a traditionally designed convertible with copious amounts of room. The all-new and completely redesigned for 2008 Chrysler Sebring seats four full-sized adults in the cabin, two golf bags in the trunk, and features three roof options - vinyl, cloth and a retractable hardtop. Opt for the Limited - the larger engine, retractable hardtop and the bells and whistles are well worth the extra price.

While the Sebring will never be cutting-edge, the classic shape and comfortable ride is at home anywhere you drive it, especially to the golf course on Sunday mornings.

At a glance
MSRP: Starting at $31,670
Engine and drivetrain: 3.5-liter V-6 engine, 235 horsepower, 232 lb.-ft. of torque, six-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick, front-wheel drive.
MPG: 18 City/28 Hwy