23 August 2012

Audi poll shows most UK convertibles stay closed

A survey by Audi throws up surprising results as the German premium brand predicts a late surge in soft-top demand following a patchy summer, writes Trish Whelan.

Britain might be one of the world's biggest markets for convertible cars, but most owners are proving reluctant to open their soft tops according to the survey which took place in August.

Audi has four soft-top models in its portfolio, and the survey indicates that just under two-thirds of Britain's convertible owners (64%) either never or rarely take the roof down.

Almost half of the owners polled cited exotic looks rather than wind-in-the-hair driving appeal as their primary reason for choosing a soft top. Of those who do like to come out from under the canvas, women owners are actually more likely than men to drive topless.

By far the largest UK age group who drive with the top down are 25-34 year olds.

Pictured above is the A5 cabrio.