I'm getting a rental car for my trip this summer in July from Denver - Ouray - Golden Mile - Mesa Verde.

I can upgrade my rental to an SUV for $25 or a Converible for extra $30.

I am thinking of a convertible as it would be nice to enjoy the scenary fully with the top down. Is a convertible practical in that area?

We don't really like SUVs and I find them hard to handle, and too big , especially if we have to drive around narrow corners, and such. But someone told me SUV would be better

Please help me decide. Leaning towards a convertible.

kittycat - a CONVERTIBLE hands down!
unless you have a bunch of small screaming kids to contain and space is the issue

we, too, are renting a convertible for the 4th of July trip.

SUVs guzzle gas, tougher on winding roads - trust me, less stable at speed turning. I owned a Pathfinder for 5 years - which is a terrific vehicle, but a moonroof is no match for a folding top.
And yes, scenery factor is important.

Here is a tip - choose Hertz car rental, which has 2005 Mustangs in their fleet (yes, it's the cool looking one that everyone wants . They also have Solaras, which are fine too - but if you want a Mustang, make a note when calling for reservations to secure one.

And call well in advance, 2-3 weeks or sooner.

Have a great trip; cheers.

nadya

A convertible would be great; your panorama car. But you'll be most likely putting the top up in the afternoon when the thunderstorms strike.

Convertible. Yes, there are usually thunderstorms most afternoons but the evenings are generally clear and cool. Find an American Express travel agency; they have access to some great car rental discounts for their clients.

The convertible car rate I am getting is $67 a day (yikes). Is that too high?

Car rental companies have always charged more - in fact, a lot more - for anything other than standard sedans. Whether they are SUV, minivans or convertibles. Often double the price of a standard or mid-sized car.

Orbitz shows $95 for convertible, so my rates look good!