Few cars embody the image of living the good life quite like roadsters. These 2-door drop-tops ooze style and laid-back charm, but they also have a fair amount of power to ensure an effortless driving experience. Luxury is important, too, especially in a convertible roadster, so many of these cars are plushly appointed. That being said, there are some affordable options that focus on accessibility over sheer opulence. To help you discover the best roadster cars of 2025, here is a list ranked according to our BuzzScores.
Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here. These lists are continuously updated with the latest BuzzScores and vehicles as they become available.
BMW Z4 Roadster
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2025 BMW Z4 Roadster
Unlike the Toyota GR Supra, with which the Z4 shares much of its DNA, the BMW still offers a choice of powertrains, with the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four staying on the menu for now. However, for those seeking out the best roadster experience, the Z4 is also available with the punchy 382-horsepower B58 - and now with a manual transmission too. Therefore, the 2025 BMW Z4 is no longer just a premium and luxuriously-trimmed drop-top, but also a serious driver's car too, offering enthusiasts the chance to row their own gears, finally.
BMW delivered everything that enthusiasts asked for: a manual transmission, a great engine, handsome styling, and access to the sky. For discerning enthusiasts, the Z4 Handschalter is the best BMW currently on sale.
- Jared Rosenholtz, CarBuzz
Choosing a lower-spec Z4 won't feel like a compromise, though, as even the base model sports 255 horsepower and a slick eight-speed automatic. A wind blocker is equipped as standard, as is a 10.3-inch touchscreen display, with Apple CarPlay integration, although Android Auto capability is not available.
This pleasant mix of creature comforts, premium materials, and BMW's famed driving dynamics is how the Z4 scores an enviable 8.1 out of 10 on our BuzzScore rating system, therefore securing the top spot as our best roadster to buy in 2025 - so far.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata 35th Anniversary Edition
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Mazda fans have been waiting around for new roadsters to crop up for some years now, as the current ND-generation is getting a little long in the tooth. However, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata still looks fresh and drives as well as ever, thanks to continual improvements and updates. A subtle facelift was revealed for the 2024 model, with a reprofiled grille, renewed all-LED head and taillights, plus updated alloy wheel styles. For 2025, a 35th Anniversary Edition appears, with all 300 Artisan Red Metallic examples to be sold in America.
There aren't many cars this reasonably priced that offer so much in terms of fun, driving pleasure, fuss-free commuting, and a load of features. There's a reason the Miata has a cult-like following across all its generations, and the latest models are likely to gain just as many fans.
- Ian Wright, CarBuzz
Value for money is still one of the Miata's strong points, with prices stubbornly sticking below $30,000. Base models kick off at $29,300, while flagship Grand Touring models command an additional premium of around $5,000. Even loaded with optional extras and cost-extra cosmetic tweaks, the 2025 Miata is one of the cheapest ways to enjoy open-top motoring, and there-in lies the appeal of this driver-focused favorite.
Gordon Murray Automotive T.33 Spider
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2025 Gordon Murray Automotive T.33 Spider
The 2025 Gordon Murray Automotive T.33 Spider is one of those cars that truly sits in a class of its own, remarked by some to be the spiritual successor of the mighty McLaren F1. Much like the McLaren, the T.33 Spider is a zero-compromise to driving pleasure.
Once the roof panels have been removed by hand, lucky owners can indulge themselves by soaking up the sunshine, and enjoying the naturally aspirated 3.9-liter V12's soundtrack - which will scream all the way round to an electronically limited 11,100 rpm. A six-speed Xtrac manual transmission is the only option, unlike with the T.50 Coupe, and power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. Fortunately, GMA steers away from distracting screens within the cabin, allowing owners to focus purely on the art of driving, which sounds like the right decision in a roadster which sports the same dimensions as a 718 Boxster, weighs 800 lbs less than an SP3 Daytona, and sports over 600 horsepower.
This is surely the best roadster on sale anywhere right now, and with a price in the region of $2.4 million, it needs to be. The approach taken by GMA when building the T.33 is unlike anything else seen with other modern roadsters, which will likely guarantee this to go down as one of the 2020's greatest hits.
Tesla Roadster
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2025 Tesla Roadster
Almost a decade has passed since the official announcement that a new Tesla Roadster was on the way, and although promises have been made and broken before by the brand, it seems that a 2025 Tesla Roadster might still be possible. Performance of the long-awaited Roadster looks to be shockingly brisk, with a 1.9-second 0 to 60 mph time, an 8.8-second quarter-mile time, and a top speed north of 250 mph. These figures once seemed unbelievable, but electric hypercars such as the Aspark Owl and Rimac Nevera have proven it can be done, eating away at the Tesla's competitive advantage somewhat.
However, while prices have not been announced yet, it's rumored that the hotly anticipated Tesla will cost around $200,000 - considerably less than the aforementioned hypercars. If Tesla can deliver on these price and performance promises, then there's no doubt this will be among the best roadsters for sale in 2025.
Other Roadsters
The following 2025 roadsters will be added to our list once their BuzzScores become available:
- Porsche 718 Boxster
- Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible
- Porsche 718 Spyder RS
Characteristics Of Roadster Cars
The convertible roadster is one of the oldest body styles available, but that doesn’t mean it’s old-fashioned. Advances in automotive technology, such as electric propulsion, have seen these desirable cars receive a modern makeover, so new roadsters don’t always have the qualities that may have become synonymous with the style. However, there are certain characteristics that you can expect from the best new roadsters:
- Esthetics: Looks matter in this segment. Whether soft- or hardtop, these cars have sensual curves designed to turn heads and make you feel like a Hollywood star. Of course, they look particularly fetching with the top down, which is why a well-appointed interior is just as important.
- Performance: While they don’t need to be fast to be enjoyable, many roadster models boast decent levels of performance. There are a variety of six-cylinder and V8-powered options, though turbocharged four-cylinders are just as common. Breakneck speeds and hyper-responsive handling are not the name of the game here, but rather effortless cruising.
- Comfort: Like leisure sports cars, roadsters need to strike a balance between ride comfort and an engaging driving experience. This is why many two-seat roadsters are officially luxury vehicles. Their interiors are comprised of quality materials and built with comfort in mind. The list of features also often leans towards this. Despite being 2-seater vehicles, they can be cramped inside, though. And trunk space is normally lacking, too, since roadsters are small in comparison to a sedan or coupe.
- Price: You generally have to pay for style and comfort, and roadsters are no exception. Those with a flair for performance are even more expensive, especially if they are equipped with AWD. The combination of a heavier drivetrain and a powerful engine means poorer fuel economy and a higher overall cost of ownership. Don’t let this discourage you, though, as there are a few economy-minded options.
Too-Little,-Too-Late
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What To Consider When Buying A New Convertible Roadster
As desirable as they are, roadsters are not without their drawbacks. Swapping out the solid roof for a retractable one introduces safety concerns, and they have more moving parts and an exposed interior that increases maintenance. These are just some of the things to consider when choosing whether a roadster is the right choice for you. Other pros and cons include:
Pros
- Wind-in-your-hair driving experience
- Head-turning looks
- Above-average 0-60 mph times
- Sports car driving dynamics
- Some feature a hardtop for added refinement
Cons
- Only space for two people
- Compromised body lowers safety ratings
- Higher price tag and fuel bills
Why should I choose a roadster over a coupe?
These small, sporty vehicles provide a better sense of freedom. There’s no replacement for the wind blowing in your hair.
Do roadster cars have higher maintenance costs?
Besides possible repairs to the collapsible roof, they should prove to be as easy to maintain as any other vehicle.
Source: Best Roadsters | 2025 Convertible Roadsters Rated | CarBuzz
