Consumer Reports rates VW Eos tops among convertibles

While convertibles are enjoyable on a sunny day, historically they've been impractical. Their tops were prone to leak and let in a lot of noise. Without the structure of a roof, their bodies tended to quiver and flex. Adding reinforcements to compensate for the lack of structure added weight, which hurt fuel economy and acceleration. Moreover, the folding top usually compromised rear-seat and trunk space, and small rear windows reduced visibility.

But now there are signs of change.

Consumer Reports recently tested seven convertibles: the BMW 328i, Chrysler Sebring, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, Pontiac G6, Saab 9-3, Volkswagen Eos and the Volvo C70. Five of the seven cars have retracting hardtops, while two have traditional fabric tops. All seven cars have power-operated tops and nominal seating for four people, though the rear seats range from merely cramped to virtually useless for human occupation. They range in price from $32,660 to $49,525.

Folding hardtops are the latest trend in convertibles. They improve visibility and security. The roof designs of hardtops are complex, take up considerable trunk space when open and can't be operated on the move. The ability of the Volkswagen Eos to incorporate a sunroof for days when drivers don't want the full convertible treatment is nice.

The Volkswagen Eos achieved the best overall score in CR's tests, narrowly outpointing the BMW 328i. Both vehicles earned "Very Good" overall scores.

Two vehicles in the group, the Saab 9-3 and Volvo C70, earned somewhat lower overall road-test scores, but were still within the "Very Good" range. The three remaining vehicles, the Pontiac G6, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder and Chrysler Sebring, posted only "Good" scores and so were at the bottom of CR's rankings for convertibles.

CR's other findings include:

Volkswagen Eos. Volkswagen's hardtop convertible is a well-rounded car that works well in all seasons. Its eager engine and responsive transmission provide a good blend of power and fuel economy.

BMW 328i. The convertible version of the 3 Series gives up very little in terms of the driving experience. CR's auto experts found it has a supple, well-controlled ride and sporty handling.

Saab 9-3. The Saab 9-3 doesn't stand out among sports sedans, but the pleasant convertible version is more competitive. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is lively and smooth, and handling is secure if not particularly agile.

Volvo C70. Volvo's convertible offers a well-finished hardtop, a sleek interior with impressive fit and finish and many safety features, including side curtain air bags. But there's a lot of wind buffeting with the top down and notable body shake.

Pontiac G6. Pontiac's four-seat convertible is the least expensive model in this group with a retractable hardtop and a rear seat that can accommodate two adults in a pinch. The low-speed ride is pretty good, the driving position is roomy and acceleration is brisk. However, the G6 has an unsettled ride and lacks agility. Reliability has been much worse than average.

Mitsubishi Eclipse. The Eclipse Spyder's sporty impression is only skin-deep. While acceleration is quick and handling seems agile at first, CR's tests exposed diminished handling capabilities. Its awful visibility, intrusive noise, harsh ride, very cramped back seat and wide turning circle are constant annoyances.

Chrysler Sebring. Much like the sedan on which it is based, the Sebring is a mediocre convertible. On the plus side, it has a relatively roomy rear seat and trunk, easy-to-use controls and in Limited trim it has a strong powertrain. But the Sebring's handling is clumsy, the ride is unsettled, the front seats are uncomfortable and the body groans and squeaks. Reliability for this new model is not yet known, but it scored too low for CR to recommend it.