MAZDA MX-5 OPEN REVIEW

Performance

4 out of 5 stars

The MX-5 comes with either a 124bhp 1.8- or a 158bhp 2.0-litre engine. Both normally have five-speed gearboxes but the 2.0-litre is available with an optional close-ratio six-speed unit. A six-speed automatic gearbox is an option for the 2.0. Both engines only come alive when they're worked hard, but do so and they're lively.
Ride & Handling

5 out of 5 stars

You want your roadster to be fun? The MX-5 will be right up your street. The light body and rear-wheel drive chassis give it outstanding balance and just keeps on gripping through corners. Sensitive, communicative steering adds to the experience. The ride is firm but not uncomfortable, although Sport versions have stiffer suspension that is less forgiving.
Refinement

3 out of 5 stars

With the roof down, the breeze is well isolated and the high-backed sports seats help prevent draughts around the driver and passenger. Roof up, the fabric does a decent job of blotting out wind noise, but if you do a lot of winter motorway driving, it is worth paying the extra for the Roadster Coupe's hard top. Both engines sound rather gruff and boomy, and it's best to avoid the automatic gearbox, which isn't very smooth.

Buying & Owning

5 out of 5 stars

The MX-5 is keenly priced and remains a sought-after product. As a result, it retains its value well. We expect it to hold on to at least half its new price over three years. Fuel economy is sensible and so are insurance groups for a sports car, so it's not expensive to run.
Quality & Reliability

5 out of 5 stars

The number of 10-year-old MX-5s you see in pristine condition should answer any doubts over durability. They're simple and super-reliable if regularly serviced. Mazda has an excellent reputation for reliability and we don't expect the MX-5 to be any different. The cabin's solid build and materials suggest it'll age well, although some of the plastics are rather dour.
Safety & Security

3 out of 5 stars

Entry-level 1.8 models come with twin front and side airbags, but you need to upgrade to the 2.0-litre to add stability control and curtain airbags. An immobiliser and an alarm are fitted as standard, but any car with a canvas roof is less secure than one with a metal one.

Behind The Wheel

5 out of 5 stars

The MX-5's low-slung driving position is exactly what you want in a roadster. The seats are supportive too and although the steering wheel only adjusts for height, it's easy to get comfy. The rear window is rather small, but visibility isn't too bad for such a sporty little car.
Space & Practicality

3 out of 5 stars

The MX-5's roof isn't electric, but raising or lowering it by hand couldn't be easier, or quicker. The two-seat cabin is cosy rather than roomy, but two tall adults can fit without a problem. The boot isn't very wide, but the omission of a spare wheel means you'll have little trouble fitting in a couple of overnight bags.
Equipment

3 out of 5 stars

Entry-level models have electric windows and alloy wheels, but air-conditioning costs extra. The 2.0i Sport adds bespoke suspension, a six-speed gearbox and fog lights, larger alloy wheels, Bluetooth, cruise control and an upgraded stereo.