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SHOWDOWN
Three German legends go head-to-head in a battle for the best four-seat convertible crown!
In the epic showdown for the best four-seat convertible, the Audi A5 Cabriolet takes the crown, blending comfort and style like a fine wine at a summer picnic. We tested the BMW 4 Series Convertible, Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet, and Audi A5 Cabriolet, evaluating their design, comfort, and performance. The A5 shines with its plush interior and cargo capacity, while the BMW dazzles with sporty dynamics, and the CLE brings a touch of luxury sophistication. Buckle up, because these German legends are a joy to drive!
| Styling | Comfort & Space | Performance | Tech & Infotainment | Overall | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 4-Series-Convertible | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 31 |
| Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 33 |
Is it right for you?
The winner on paper might not be the winner for your life.
Ah, the joys of drop-top motoring! Who wouldn't want to feel the wind in their hair, especially when it comes from the finely engineered German machines? Today we're taking a look at three fabulous four-seater convertibles: the BMW 4 Series Convertible, the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet, and the Audi A5 Cabriolet. Each brings its own unique charm to the table, but which one deserves to be parked in your driveway? Buckle up, folks; it’s about to get breezy!
BMW 4-Series-Convertible
8
Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet
9
Audi A5-Cabriolet
8
The 4 Series dons BMW's latest controversial 'beaver-face,' which either draws admiration or melancholy - a true icebreaker at parties, though! The CLE Cabriolet, with sleek lines and an poised stance, screams sophistication; it’s the car that would show up at an art gallery opening and look right at home. The A5 Cabriolet strikes a nice balance with its classic yet modern design, perfect for a leisurely coastal drive. All three vehicles definitely bring their A-game to the styling table.
In a close contest of aesthetics, the takes the crown for its head-turning looks, followed closely by the BMW and Audi, both of which offer engaging yet slightly more conservative designs.
BMW 4-Series-Convertible
7
Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet
8
Audi A5-Cabriolet
9
All three cabins are oozing with quality materials – fancy enough for those extra special Sunday brunches. The 4 Series boasts back seats spacious enough for actual adults, which is a win for family outings. The CLE leans a bit toward luxury comfort but with room for improvement, while the A5 Cabriolet nails it with its plush interior that combines high-quality feel with ample rear space.
All vehicles offer ample space for four adults. The BMW's tight boot might have you playing Tetris with luggage, while the Audi is a tad more accommodating. If you're planning a road trip, the A5 Cabriolet has an edge with cargo capacity.
Overall, the A5 scores highest in the comfort stakes, closely followed by the CLE and let’s not forget the BMW offers decent space too.
BMW 4-Series-Convertible
8
Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet
7
Audi A5-Cabriolet
6
The BMW offers several engine options, with the M440i being the muscle car of the bunch. The Mercedes provides a variety of impressive engines – their line-up filled with a solid 376bhp inline-six! Audi? They keep it simple with less powerful offerings, which are more suited for cruising than spirited driving.
The BMW is nimble and eager, giving drivers a connection to the road. The Audi places comfort over sportiness, while the Mercedes feels balanced but leans toward comfort more than performance. None are slouches, but the BMW is the top pick if you prioritize driving dynamics.
All these beauties come with advanced driving features. BMW's xDrive enhances the driving experience, whereas Mercedes places a strong emphasis on making the ride as smooth as butter, complete with the Airscarf for neck warmth. The Audi outshines with its refinement but lacks the notable driving features of its rivals.
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BMW 4-Series-Convertible
8
Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet
9
Audi A5-Cabriolet
7
BMW’s infotainment system is intuitive but slightly behind in terms of freshness compared to the Mercedes, which flaunts a brilliant touchscreen with loads of features, including TikTok for those socially inclined! The Audi has decent tech but not as user-friendly as the others.
All cars come loaded with driver aids and creature comforts. However, the Mercedes clearly stands out with its luxurious touches and excellent integration of tech features, making the driving experience feel plush and seamless.
The BMW might require some sacrifice in boot space for the sake of elegance, while the CLE offers a roomy trunk—perfect for those spontaneous weekend getaways. The A5 is somewhat in the middle but generally maintains practicality.
BMW 4-Series-Convertible
Overall
31
Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet
Overall
33
BOBI'S VERDICT
Prices for these drop-tops range from around £42,000 for the A5 to £82,055 for the more lavish CLE. The 4 Series starts at a competitive £45,800, making these options ripe for buyers looking for luxury at various price points. The BMW provides the best balance of performance for what you get, but the CLE and A5 both offer enticing alternatives.
Ultimately, if you're after luxurious cruising, the Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet emerges as the best all-rounder. For those who want thrilling driving and a stylish ride, the BMW 4 Series Convertible is your new best friend. Meanwhile, the Audi A5 Cabriolet is a solid choice for those who prioritize interior quality and practicality, despite its sportiness waning in comparison. So, whether you want an exhilarating experience or plush comfort, there's a convertible here for everyone. Now, let's hit the road!
BMW 4-Series-Convertible
Overall
31
Mercedes-Benz Cle-Cabriolet
Overall
33
In performance, the BMW claims the top spot for anyone looking for a bit of fun behind the wheel. The Mercedes follows with strong performance, while the Audi is best for cozy cruising.
When it comes to technology and features, the Mercedes holds a slight edge, while BMW offers a robust tech package, and Audi lags a bit behind but still offers good basics.