So, what happened? Where did all the convertibles go? More importantly—who’s still making them, and why should you care?

What’s killing the convertible?

First, let’s look at the numbers. In 2006, convertibles made up about 2% of all U.S. vehicle sales. Today? Try less than half a percent. That’s not a dip. That’s a nosedive with the top down and no parachute.

And yet—curiously—it’s not about the weather. Americans still enjoy the sun, the breeze, and the romantic notion of a car that lets you feel the elements. What changed was the shape of our fantasy.

We traded coupes and cabrios for crossovers and cargo space. The tall-riding SUV offers panoramic views, safety clout, and weekend versatility. It fits the dog, the tent, and your significant other’s shoe collection. Meanwhile, the average convertible fits… two golf clubs and a mild sunburn.

What about sunroofs?

Here’s the kicker: modern panoramic glass roofs deliver 80% of the open-air experience with 0% of the hassle. No leaks. No rogue wasps. No awkward hairdos. Just press a button and enjoy the light show—minus the wind tunnel effect.

Add to that the engineering reality. Lopping off a car’s roof without making it drive like overcooked spaghetti isn’t easy. It takes structural reinforcements, rollover protection, and clever chassis tuning. That adds cost—and carmakers are no longer in the mood to spend money on low-volume indulgences.

So, who’s still making them?

Surprisingly, a few brands are holding the line—and doing it with flair.

• Ford Mustang Convertible – Still growling, still affordable, and still unmistakably American.
• Mazda Miata (MX-5) – Lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and proof that you don’t need 500 horsepower to grin like an idiot.
• BMW Z4 – Slick German styling with a drop-top attitude.
• BMW M440i Convertible – For those who want a little more straight-line Bavarian muscle with their Vitamin D.

If you’ve got a bit more coin and a thirst for theatre:

• Porsche 911 Cabriolet – The definitive sports car, now with built-in sunburn.
• Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo – All drama, no compromise.
• MINI Cooper S Convertible – The cheekiest option of the bunch. Iconic design, surprising agility, and yes—the roof folds in 18 seconds. You could decide to call in “sick” and be on the coast before HR even clocks in.

Bonus points: MINI’s “Always Open Timer” shows exactly how long you’ve driven with the top down. Think of it as your tan logbook.

Any surprises?

Yes. Mercedes still plays in this space, and they do it with their typical cinematic flair. The AMG SL-Class folds its roof like a Bond gadget—luxury, horsepower, and style in a single stroke.

Audi’s S5 Cabriolet is another quiet standout, balancing all-weather daily usability with wind-in-your-hair credibility.

But why bother at all?

Good question. No convertible will ever win the practicality Olympics. But that’s not their job. Convertibles aren’t tools—they’re toys. Emotional machines built not for drywall runs, but for chasing sunsets. They’re here to remind you that driving can still be an experience—not just a commute.

In a world of giant touchscreens and adaptive cruise control, there’s something stubbornly analog about a car that opens itself to the sky. A reminder that, once in a while, it’s okay to do something entirely because it feels good.

So… are convertibles dead?

Hardly. They’re endangered, yes. But among enthusiasts, romantics, and the eternally young-at-heart, convertibles remain a cult classic. The audience may be smaller—but it’s also fiercely loyal.

For those who get it, it’s not about speed or specs or spreadsheets. It’s about feeling the breeze, seeing the sky, and hearing the engine bounce off canyon walls.

And if that doesn’t move you… well, there’s always the crossover aisle at your local dealership.

The post Why Americans Fell Out of Love With Convertibles appeared first on ROI TV.

As the auto industry moves toward SUVs and electrification, Mercedes-AMG is keeping the joy of open-air driving alive with the all-new 2025 CLE 53 Cabriolet. This stylish drop-top merges performance, luxury, and advanced technology while replacing both the C-Class and E-Class Coupes and Convertibles. But does it truly deliver an exhilarating drive, or is it just another luxury cruiser? Let’s take a closer look.

What Sets the 2025 CLE 53 Cabriolet Apart?

Mercedes has streamlined its lineup, and the CLE 53 Cabriolet emerges as a bold statement in design and performance. Longer than the outgoing E-Class Coupe and 2.3 inches wider up front, the vehicle offers improved stability while maintaining AMG’s signature aggressive styling.

Exclusive AMG Features Include:

•           Turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine

•           443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque

•           Mild-hybrid assist for seamless acceleration

•           0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds

•           AMG Speedshift 9-speed automatic transmission

•           4MATIC+ all-wheel drive for superior traction

Performance: A True AMG or Just a Cruiser?

The CLE 53 Cabriolet balances both high-performance thrills and refined luxury. In Comfort mode, it delivers a smooth, quiet ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease. However, switching to Sport+ or Race mode transforms the car—sharpening the steering, firming up the suspension, and letting the AMG-tuned exhaust system roar to life.

One of its standout features is rear-axle steering, enhancing agility for tight cornering and improving maneuverability in city traffic—a rarity among convertibles of this size.

Luxury Meets Innovation

Mercedes has ensured the cabin of the CLE 53 Cabriolet is as premium as its performance. Key features include:

•           Nappa leather upholstery options

•           11.9-inch portrait touchscreen with the latest MBUX infotainment system

•           Fully digital instrument cluster for a high-tech feel

•           Airscarf neck-level heating for comfortable top-down driving in cooler temperatures

•           Aircap wind deflector to reduce cabin turbulence

Are There Any Downsides?

Despite its strengths, the CLE 53 Cabriolet does have some drawbacks:

•           No V8 option – Enthusiasts may miss the signature growl and brute force of AMG’s V8 engines.

•           Tight rear seats – Rear passengers won’t find much legroom, making it better suited for short trips rather than long-haul drives.

How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?

The CLE 53 Cabriolet finds itself in a competitive space. It offers more power than the BMW M440i but isn’t as track-focused as the M4. It outshines the Audi S5 Cabriolet in both technology and luxury while providing a more refined daily-driving experience compared to the Porsche 718 Boxster S.

Who Should Buy It?

For those seeking a luxury convertible that seamlessly blends AMG performance, top-tier comfort, and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 CLE 53 Cabriolet is a top contender. It offers an ideal mix of excitement and sophistication, making it one of the most well-rounded open-top cars of the year.

Final Verdict? A True Showstopper.

Looking for the best performance-luxury convertible of 2025? This may be it. 

The post 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet appeared first on ROI TV.