Mazda MX-5 Reviewed

By Tim Barnes-Clay. Tweet Tim @carwriteups

The lightest MX-5 since the celebrated original, the latest model is shorter, lower and wider than the last generation, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet.

These dynamic proportions ensure that the car’s styling reflects its emphasis on driving pleasure in a contemporary and energetic way.

Featuring Mazda’s award-winning SKYACTIV technology, the MX-5’s ultra-efficient lightweight petrol- powered engines deliver better heights of performance and economy. Across the line-up the MX-5 features alloy wheels, LED headlights, a leather steering wheel, as well as a light and sleek fabric hood.

SE-L models add LED daytime running lights, climate control air-conditioning, DAB radio, Bluetooth and cruise control, plus Mazda’s connectivity and infotainment system with seven-inch colour touch-screen display and Multimedia Commander. SE-L models with a 2.0-litre 160PS engine, as driven here, are distinguished by 17-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors, and benefit from a strut tower bar and limited slip differential.

Step up to Sport trim and both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre cars feature rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry, Premium Bose Surround-Sound and heated leather seats. With the 1.5-litre engine, Sport trim MX-5’s come with 16-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors. Sport models with the 2.0-litre 160PS engine benefit from a dynamic set-up that includes Sports suspension featuring Bilstein dampers, a limited slip differential and strut tower bar, while visually, they are marked out by their 17-inch Bright alloy wheels and body coloured mirrors.

But perhaps the most amazing aspect of the MX-5 is that when the original model was launched in 1990, it cost £14,249 (equal to £31,687 in today’s money), yet quarter of a century later with far more standard equipment, the Mazda MX-5 costs from £18,795. This means, more than ever, it sets the benchmark as the one of the world’s best and most affordable sports cars.

Fast Facts (2.0i SE-L Nav 160PS)