Audi A4

“Folding metal roofs are all the rage in new car showrooms, but they still follow the traditional cycle of seasonal price changes on used forecourts. Demand for second-hand soft-top models is undiminished.” Jeff Paterson

The A4 continues to reign supreme among second-hand four-seater drop-tops. If anything, the decision to name it the victor for the third year running was made even easier, because CC-style convertibles are proving just as susceptible to the seasonal shift in values that afflicts traditional soft-tops.

Judge Jeff Paterson said: “With the roof up, CC models look like ordinary coupés. But the people who buy these cars want other drivers to know they’ve made the choice to buy a cabrio, so canvas hoods are still popular.” As a result, having a fabric top won’t cause the A4 to lose out when you come to sell it. And, in the meantime, you get to enjoy all the benefits of a more compact cabriolet – such as additional space for rear passengers and a decent boot.

With the excellent saloon as its basis, the Audi has a head-start on rivals, while the broad engine line-up runs from a 1.8T petrol unit to a torquey 2.5-litre TDI turbodiesel. Last year, our judges were amazed by the prices which old models command, and that hasn’t changed. Even its 80-based predecessor continues to appeal, which indicates the current car would be a sound investment.

For the same reason, however, the Audi doesn’t come cheap in the first place, and a three-year-old example can set you back the same price as a new Peugeot 307 CC or Renault Mégane CC.

Nevertheless, the German car’s unrivalled image, fantastic build and handsome looks make it a compelling option that’s likely to hold its value well.

Commended: Saab 9-3 Convertible

2003 to present

Affordable four-seater cabrios are rare, and Saab’s 9-3 has been a well kept secret. Displacing the CC-style Renault Mégane in the Commended list this year, it’s not the stiffest or most refined cabrio, but the Saab has bags of style. Thanks to its traditional soft-top, there’s decent boot and rear space, while Vectors have climate-control and leather seats.

Commended: MINI

2004 to present

The charismatic MINI is in many ways a car without any direct rivals – a premium soft-top supermini with impressive handling and lively performance. Prices for early models are lower than ever before, too. However, it is as impractical as it’s always been, with a tiny 120-litre boot and cramped back seats. Rearward visibility is non-existent with the roof up, but at least the convertible comes with reverse parking sensors as standard.