While many Turo hosts focus on SUVs or economy sedans, convertibles offer a specific niche that can drive high daily rates.

These cars are very seasonal, with demand peaking from late spring through early fall in most of the country.

In sunny markets like Los Angeles or Miami, the season lasts all year, making "convertible" a top search filter for guests looking to enjoy their trip.

Top 3 Budget Convertibles for Turo ROI

If you want to add a drop-top to your fleet without spending too much, these three models provide a great mix of cost, reliability, and guest interest.

1. Ford Mustang Convertible (2015–2022) The Mustang is the go-to choice for Turo convertibles. It is the classic American rental car, especially for tourists visiting coastal or scenic areas. Older EcoBoost models are often priced well and still feel modern to guests.

Pro Tip: Stick to the automatic transmission to make sure any driver can book it.

2. MINI Convertible (2016–2023) The MINI is a fun, stylish rental that works well for city trips. It has a high demand-to-supply ratio, meaning there are fewer MINIs on the platform than Mustangs, which helps you keep your calendar full even in crowded markets.

Pro Tip: Look for a model with heated seats so you can keep renting it into the cooler spring and autumn months.

3. Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016–2024) The Miata is a favorite for car enthusiasts and solo travelers. It offers a great driving experience that guests will pay more for. These cars are reliable and hold their value remarkably well over time.

Pro Tip: A manual transmission is actually a plus for this model, as Miata guests often look for that specific experience.

Where to Buy Your Fleet for the Best Price

Finding the right car is only half the battle; finding it at the right price secures your profit. For budget convertibles, look for vehicles that have already taken their biggest depreciation hit.

Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are often where you find the best deals on Mustangs and Miatas. You can usually see maintenance records and talk directly to the previous owner.

Another great option is rental agency sales. Hertz and Enterprise Car Sales often sell their fleets at "no-haggle" prices. While these cars see more drivers, they are usually maintained on a strict schedule.

For cars like the Miata or MINI, car forums are gold mines. Owners on these sites tend to be "car people" who over-maintain their vehicles.

When it comes to best time to buy, late autumn or mid-winter is the sweet spot. Sellers are often tired of paying for insurance and storage on a car they can't drive, allowing you to pay 10-15% less than you would in the spring.

Boosting Profit with Add-ons

Since you keep 90% of the revenue from Extras, add-ons are the secret to boosting your monthly take-home pay.

  • Beach Gear Bundles: In coastal markets, a kit with chairs, an umbrella, and towels is a top seller. It saves guests from trying to pack these items or buying them locally.
  • Coolers: A small cooler fits perfectly in limited trunk space (especially in a Miata) and pays for itself in just one or two trips.
  • Prepaid Refuel: This is a guest favorite. By letting them return the car at any fuel level, you save them time and earn a convenience fee on top of the fuel cost.
  • Phone Mounts: Since older budget convertibles may lack modern navigation, including a high-quality mount is a cheap way to earn five-star reviews.

When to List Your Convertible

Timing matters. To get the best returns, aim to have your car listed at least 30 days before the warm weather hits. This gives the listing time to get its first few reviews and start ranking in search results just as guests begin planning their summer trips.