| "Convertibles are on the rise again," says | | | | was $24,945. That time, the lowest-priced |
| Jim Hall, analyst for automotive research | | | | convertible in United States was the 2-seater |
| firm AutoPacific Inc. of Tustin, California. | | | | Mercedes-Benz SLK280. It was priced at |
| This year's automakers sales reports are | | | | $44,125. |
| dominated by upgraded versions of small cars. | | | | |
| Moreover, a sizeable market is reflected to | | | | Last year, less expensive power-operated |
| have purchased not-so-costly convertibles | | | | hardtop convertibles are nowhere to be found. |
| with hardtops. These convertibles deliver an | | | | Nowadays, three out of nine convertible |
| option to enjoy the fun of open-air driving | | | | models with power hardtop have a base price |
| and the security of the traditional cars | | | | of not more than $30,000. Another reason that |
| especially during winter and rainy days. | | | | triggered the mainstream demographics to |
| | | | purchase said convertibles is reduction of |
| "If you're in Chicago, this is a fine car to | | | | its parts. In the U.S., 40 convertible |
| drive in the wintertime," says Volkswagen | | | | nameplates, softtop and hardtop went on sale. |
| spokesman Steve Keyes of his company's Eos. | | | | They have the starting prices not exceeding |
| The convertibles that made a dramatic | | | | $33,000. The second lowest-priced hardtop was |
| increase in sales include MX-5 Miata with | | | | 2007 Volkswagen Eos which has a starting |
| power retractable hardtop, Pontiac G6 and | | | | price of $28,620. Next to Eos comes 2007 |
| Volvo C70. | | | | Pontiac G6 which is priced at $29,150. |
| | | | |
| Mazda Miata is one of the innovative | | | | Automakers are taking into consideration this |
| convertibles that have triggered the crowd to | | | | sweeping shift to stylish yet functional |
| press their purchase buttons. Mazda Miata | | | | convertibles. Jace Stokes, Pontiac product |
| parts which include the remarkable | | | | manager, says "The G6 convertible's |
| retractable power hardtop made the vehicle | | | | appearance has drawn people into dealerships |
| the new price leader of the year. When it | | | | in areas of the country that have not |
| arrived at the showrooms, its starting price | | | | traditionally been strong for Pontiac. |