Five Most Fuel-Efficient 2012 Convertibles

If you're looking for the wind-in-your-hair experience, then there are plenty of 2012 convertibles from which to choose. However, not all of these sport-leaning models have the ability to save you money at the pump. Keep reading to review the five most fuel-efficient convertibles for the 2012 model year.

2012 Volkswagen Eos (25 mpg combined)

The VW Eos has a similar build as the Volkswagen Jetta (minus the roof, of course). A base price of $33,995 has this VW convertible straddling the line between the affordable and luxury market. For the price, you'll get a retractable hardtop roof, 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, wind deflector, keyless entry, cruise control, power front seats, vinyl upholstery, Bluetooth, eight-speaker stereo and more. The powerful 200-hp engine delivers a good balance of performance and efficiency. EPA estimates suggest drivers will get 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Learn more about the 2012 Volkswagen Eos.

2012 Audi TT Roadster (26 mpg combined)

Compared to other luxury convertibles, the TT reigns in the horsepower just a bit in an effort to keep mileage manageable. The result is a 211-hp, 258 lb-ft of torque two-seater that returns 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Initial asking price is $41,300, with a standard features package that includes 18-inch wheels, foglights, adaptive xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, power front seats, automatic climate control, faux suede upholstery, Bluetooth, nine-speaker stereo and more. If you're looking for a sporty little convertible that is loaded with luxury features, then the Audi TT Roadster is definitely worth a look.

Learn more about the 2011 Audi TT Roadster.

2012 BMW Z4 Convertible (27 mpg combined)

Like the Audi TT, the BMW Z4 benefits from a small frame and lightweight design to return above-average fuel efficiency for a convertible. For the 2012 model year, BMW introduces a new turbocharged four-cylinder base engine that manages 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque. Mated to a manual transmission, this power plant returns 22 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway (24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway with an automatic). Standard equipment on the BMW Z4 includes 17-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, automatic wipers, cruise control, air conditioning, vinyl seats, Bluetooth, adjustable drive settings and more. Base MSRP for the 2012 Z4 is listed at $48,650.

Learn more about the 2012 BMW Z4 Convertible

2012 Fiat 500 Cabrio (29 mpg combined)

The Fiat 500 is one of the few affordable convertible options for 2012. As an all-new model entry, the Fiat is a cutesy subcompact that seeks to steal market share from such competitors as the MINI Cooper. A modest 101-hp four-cylinder engine actually proves fairly athletic thanks to the Fiat's lightweight design. As an added bonus, that conservative engine results in stellar fuel efficiency – 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Starting at $19,500, it's hard to find a more affordable convertible. Base models come equipped with 15-inch wheels, keyless entry, full power accessories, air conditioning, cruise control, height-adjustable driver's seat, six-speaker stereo and more.

Learn more about the 2012 Fiat 500C.

2012 MINI Cooper (30 mpg combined)

While the Fiat brings heightened competition, it doesn't quite match the MINI Cooper's 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. For years, the MINI Cooper has been prized for its European design and sport dynamics. The 2012 model returns relatively unchanged. Convertible models start at $24,950 and include such features as full power accessories, keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, vinyl seats, six-speaker stereo and more. A spirited drive comes courtesy of a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 121 horsepower and 114 lb-ft. of torque.

Learn more about the 2012 MINI Cooper.