New convertible sales have plunged in the UK as drivers fall for the SUV, but for some, the love of the open-top lingers on
The number of new convertible cars sold in the UK has nearly halved in the last 25 years, with only 16 models for sale across the UK’s top 30 carmakers, according to a new study.
CarGurus UK found that in 2024 there were only 12,173 new convertibles registered in the UK, compared with 94,484 in 2004. The decline is partly due to SUVs becoming a popular choice for people in Britain with many favouring bulkier vehicles with higher seating positions and more boot space.
From scenic drives to leaking hoods, four people share their memories of their convertible and why they love them.
“My friend had a 20-year-old Fiat Barchetta for a few years and I had always admired it,” said 80-year-old Susan Laborde. Five years ago, she was given first refusal when her friend wanted to get rid of the car. She never thought about owning a convertible before but it was “so beautiful” she “scraped the money for it” and has never looked back.
