Mazda MX-5 Convertible review

In a world where hot hatches and even two-tonne SUVs can hit 0-62mph in less than four seconds, the Mazda MX-5 Convertible is a breath of fresh air. You see, rather than chasing outright speed, this is a sports car that focuses on plastering a big, silly grin on your face, regardless of velocity.

Of course, this isn’t a new recipe; the original MX-5 was launched back in 1989 and the current model is the fourth generation of Mazda’s affordable roadster. While you can find drop-tops such as the Mini Convertible and Fiat 500C for similar money (if not less), though, neither offers quite the same traditional sports car appeal.

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Buyers can choose between a 1.5- or 2.0-litre petrol engine, both of which promise enough poke for you to have fun without fearing for your licence. Neither is a powerhouse, but that’s no issue, considering that the MX-5 weighs about the same as a city car. There's also a Mazda MX-5 RF, which we’ve reviewed separately. Those initials stand for Retractable Fastback; in other words a metal folding roof rather than fabric roof. It's a little more expensive, but provides a desirable alternative to the soft-top that makes sense all year round. 

If we’ve piqued your interest, carry on reading over the next few pages to get the complete rundown of what’s good, and not so good, about owning an MX-5. And if you decide that it’s the sports car for you, head over to our New Car Buying pages, where you could land yourself a tidy saving on the list price.