Audi soft top survey shows many in the UK stay closed

In a new survey released by Audi, they say that despite the UK being one of the biggest convertible markets in the world, most owners are reluctant to open their soft tops. The survey, which was carried out in August by Audi, indicates that just under two thirds (64%) of Britain’s convertible owners either never or rarely take the roof down. Those results are not surprising to those of us who actually live in the UK, with its typically inclement weather. The report did also find that 46% of the owners polled had cited exotic looks rather than wind-in-the-hair driving appeal as their primary reason for choosing a soft top and found women were more likely to choose to drive with the top down than men. Not surprising, the survey claims that the largest age group who prefer open air driving are 25 to 34 year olds, and those living in the East Midlands.

Audi says that the UK is the biggest export market in the World for its cabriolets; “Our owners want the choice,” explained Audi UK Director Martin Sander. “Drivers in Britain like to know they can drop their roof, especially as the weather here is so changeable. But they also know that even with the roof up, a soft top car still looks out of the ordinary and highly desirable.” If you have ever thought that owning one of these elegant looking vehicles was for you, then this might be the summer to consider buying one, as the waiting line to get your hands on one is decreasing. “In the wake of the patchy British summer of 2012, waiting times for some convertibles are coming down. Open-top fans may be able to benefit from shorter lead times on models like the A3 and A5 Cabriolets as well as sports cars like the TT Roadster and the R8 Spyder,” concluded Mr Sander.

To see Audi's range of stunning convertibles, please visit Audi's website here.