Sixt’s LTAR class features full-size convertibles for drivers who want open-air travel without losing space or refinement. These cars go beyond compact drop-tops, with four usable seats, a trunk fit for more than a weekend bag, and engines ready for interstate cruising. Power soft tops and stable handling balance daily usability with top-down appeal. For renters planning longer trips or simply looking to stretch out under the open sky, LTAR convertibles carve out a niche between sporty two-seaters and practical sedans.
Sixt LTAR
Find out which cars are included in the Sixt LTAR category
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BMW 4 Series Convertible
For the current model year, buyers can choose the 4 Series Convertible in two versions. BMW positions the 430i for drivers who value efficiency and a relaxed cruising style. The M440i delivers noticeably more power and a sportier driving experience. Both models share the same body, the same fabric roof, and almost the same technology package, yet they differ significantly in character.
Even at a standstill, the 4 Series Convertible makes an impression. The long hood, the wide rear end, and the sharp character lines stand out even more with the top down. The fabric roof opens and closes in about 18 seconds, and drivers can operate it at low speeds while on the move. The chassis feels impressively stiff for a convertible and only sends minimal vibration through the steering column on rough pavement.
The 430i is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic handles the shifts. The engine is smooth and reacts quickly to throttle input, although the sound becomes somewhat artificial at higher revs. A mild-hybrid system supports the engine when pulling away and makes the start-stop function seamless. Fuel economy is reasonable for a car of this size.
The suspension setup of the 430i is neutral and predictable. The steering is accurate but could provide more feedback. Acceleration from zero to sixty miles per hour takes about 5.9 seconds, which makes the car quick but not a true sports machine. For everyday use and longer drives the performance is more than sufficient.
The M440i takes performance to another level. It is powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 386 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. A mild-hybrid system is also included. The sound of the engine is rich and authentic, and the car reaches sixty miles per hour in about 4.6 seconds. The power delivery is immediate and the engine revs effortlessly.
This version comes standard with an adaptive suspension that offers a wide range between comfort and sport. The car feels stable and composed in fast corners. With xDrive all-wheel drive, traction improves noticeably, although the handling feels slightly less rear-biased.
With the roof open the difference between the engines becomes very clear. The four cylinder stays discreet in the background, while the six cylinder delivers a satisfying soundtrack. Thanks to the rigid chassis the car stays composed even at highway speeds. Wind noise stays moderate, and the optional wind deflector cuts it down even further. With the roof closed the cabin feels almost as quiet as a sedan.
Both versions feature BMW’s curved display that combines a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9 inch central screen. The latest iDrive 8.5 system responds quickly but takes some getting used to because BMW eliminated most physical buttons. The seats stay very comfortable on long trips and the overall build quality feels high, although some plastic surfaces do not seem as premium.
Standard driver assistance features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines.
Optional upgrades expand the package considerably. The Driving Assistance Professional Package adds adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability and active lane centering that gently keeps the car in its lane on well-marked roads.
Other options include a parking assistant that automatically maneuvers the car into both parallel and perpendicular spaces, a 360 degree surround-view camera, and a new augmented reality navigation function. This system overlays live camera images with directional arrows, which is especially helpful in dense urban areas and when searching for a parking space.
In real-world use the systems operate reliably and without being intrusive. The displays are clearly designed and the driver assistance features work smoothly. Long-distance drivers will particularly appreciate the adaptive cruise control and lane centering, while in city traffic the cameras and parking assistant make daily driving much easier.
| Specification | 430i | M440i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with mild-hybrid assist | 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assist |
| Output | 255 hp | 386 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 398 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | about 5.9 seconds | about 4.6 seconds |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive or available xDrive all-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive or available xDrive all-wheel drive |
| Combined fuel economy | around 27 mpg | around 25 mpg |
| Suspension | Steel springs, adaptive suspension optional | Adaptive suspension standard |
| Starting MSRP (U.S.) | approx. $60,000 | approx. $70,000 |
Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet
The convertible segment in the U.S. has gotten small, but Mercedes is keeping it alive with the new CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet. This open-top four seater replaces both the previous C-Class and E-Class convertibles, landing right between them. It is large enough to take two couples on a scenic drive yet still compact enough not to feel like an oversized boulevard cruiser. We drove the CLE 300 in California to get a sense of its ride, interior, and driver assistance tech.
With the soft top raised the CLE 300 looks elegant if not especially eye catching. The proportions are long and sleek, the hood stretches forward, and the silhouette recalls the current coupe. Drop the top and it shows a pleasantly classic cabriolet presence. It does not try to be a lifestyle gadget but rather a modern take on the traditional fabric roof four seater.
The top itself offers solid insulation. At 70 mph on the highway, wind and road noise stay surprisingly moderate. Compared directly with a hardtop you can hear a difference, but it is not dramatic. The optional AIRCAP wind deflector and AIRSCARF neck heater let you cruise with the top down on chilly evenings without taking an unwanted blast of cold air.
A 2.0 liter turbocharged four teams up with a 48 volt mild hybrid system to provide power. With 255 horsepower and 295 pound feet of torque, the engine does not overwhelm a car of this size, but it delivers smooth and steady acceleration. The run from zero to sixty takes about 6.2 seconds, respectable though not quite sports car quick.
The nine speed automatic usually shifts with polish. On occasion it hesitates to downshift as if double checking whether the driver really wants to accelerate or just change engine note slightly. Standard all wheel drive provides secure traction even if most CLE 300 buyers will rarely need it.
Mercedes has tuned the CLE for comfort. The suspension absorbs bumps calmly and takes the edge off potholes. Drivers looking for sharper dynamics will find the steering precise but short on feel. It points the car accurately but does not relay much feedback from the pavement.
In corners the cabriolet stays neutral with only a little body motion. At just over 4,200 pounds you are always aware of its weight. The CLE 300 is safe and composed rather than exciting. Those wanting more performance will have to wait for AMG versions. For most buyers the focus on long relaxed drives will be right on target.
Inside the CLE 300 shows the usual Mercedes craftsmanship with a clean layout and modern displays. In front of the driver is a 12.3 inch digital cluster. The center stack features a portrait style 11.9 inch touchscreen running the latest MBUX interface. Menus are logical, voice commands work well, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
The front seats are comfortable with available ventilation and massage. Rear seat space is improved over the previous models and usable for adults though still tight on longer trips. The trunk offers 9.6 cubic feet which is fine as long as you are not packing for four.
Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and automated parking. Spend more and you get adaptive cruise with steering assist, lane keeping and lane change assist, and the impressively bright Digital Light headlights. In practice the systems work smoothly without being intrusive. The active lane change function is especially effective on American highways.
As capable as the CLE 300 is in comfort and quality it plays it safe on the emotional side. The four cylinder is refined but its sound is flat and uninspiring. Even at high revs it feels more dutiful than spirited. The steering, though accurate, adds little engagement. Buyers wanting a convertible not only as a comfortable tourer but as a source of driving excitement may walk away underwhelmed. The CLE 300 is more luxury sedan without a roof than bold sports statement.
| Specification | CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged inline-four with 48V mild hybrid system |
| Output | 255 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | about 6.2 seconds |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic (9G-TRONIC) |
| Drivetrain | Standard all-wheel drive (4MATIC) |
| Combined fuel economy | approx. 27 mpg (EPA: 23/32 City/Highway) |
| Suspension | Comfort-tuned, sport suspension optional |
| Starting MSRP (U.S.) | around $66,450 |