Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet

The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is based on the standard hatchback, so the cabin is identical, which means excellent build quality, use of some very durable materials and plenty of practical storage cubbies. There's room for four adults inside, and from behind the wheel there is very little to tell the Cabriolet from the normal hatch, with only large bumps making the suspension feel unsettled. Front and rear LED lights are fitted as standard, which enhances the car's upmarket feel. The electric roof takes only 9.5 seconds to open, and it can do this at speeds of up to 18mph. With the canvas roof folded down, rear passengers are slightly exposed to the elements and boot space becomes limited to 250 litres. There are three engines available: 1.2, 1.4 and 2.0-litre TSI petrols and 1.6 and 2.0-litre TDI diesels, which comes with fuel-saving BlueMotion Technology. While not cheap to buy, the VW Golf Cabriolet will hold its value better than most rivals, making it both fun and sensible. This is why we named it CarBuyer's Best Cabriolet for 2012.