For summer drives around South Yorkshire and the Peak District, the most enjoyable used cars are open-tops such as the Mazda MX-5, MINI Convertible, Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet and BMW 4 Series Convertible. If you want something practical for days out, a small hybrid SUV like the Toyota Yaris Cross or Ford Puma is easy to live with all year.

A summer car does not have to be a second car. Several of the picks below work just as well on a wet Tuesday commute as they do on a sunny Sunday.

Which open-top cars suit summer driving?

Mazda MX-5

Light, two-seat and rear-wheel drive, with a roof you can lower in seconds from the driver's seat. Great on the winding roads into the Peak District.

MINI Convertible

Four seats, a fabric roof with a sunroof setting and easy town manners. A good choice if you need occasional rear seats.

Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet

An open-top with a higher seating position and more everyday practicality than most convertibles.

BMW 4 Series Convertible

More comfortable and refined for longer trips. The latest versions use a fabric roof, while earlier ones had a folding metal roof.

Older open-tops worth a look

The Audi A3 Cabriolet and Range Rover Evoque Convertible are no longer made, but used examples are still around. Check the roof and service history carefully. Our used convertible guide has a full checklist.

Which practical cars are good for summer days out?

Toyota Yaris Cross. A small self-charging hybrid SUV that is economical on long trips.
Ford Puma. A mild hybrid with a clever, washable storage area under the boot floor.
MG4 EV. An electric hatchback with a good range for the money. Plan your charging stops for longer trips.
Fiat 500 Electric. Small and easy to park, and some versions have a full-length fabric roof.

What should I check before a summer road trip?

Tyres. Check pressures and tread before loading up, especially if carrying passengers or luggage.
Air conditioning. If it no longer blows cold, it may need a service. Our service centre can check it.
Coolant and oil. Hot weather and long climbs put more strain on the engine.
Plan breaks. Stop every couple of hours and keep water in the car.

Our heatwave car guide has more hot-weather tips.

Common questions

Is it cheaper to buy a convertible in winter?

Often, yes. Demand for open-top cars usually drops in autumn and winter, so you may have more choice and room to negotiate.

Are convertibles practical in Yorkshire?

Modern roofs are well sealed and quick to raise. Boot space is the main compromise.

Should I use the air-con in winter too?

Yes. Running it regularly helps clear misted windows and keeps the system in good order.

Looking for your next car in Barnsley?

anycolourcar.com is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Browse our cars in stock, get a value for your current car through sell your motor, or call sales on 01226 574410.

Updated October 2026.

Best Used Cars for Summer Drives in South Yorkshire