The New Mazda MX5. Does It Live Up To The Hype?
The Mazda MX5 has a fierce reputation in the motoring world. It has long been considered the best little roadster on the market. Thanks to its affordable price and sheer fun, there has been no competition. It is the perfect entry level sports car for any motoring enthusiast. This year Mazda have unveiled their brand new model and it’s every bit as magical as the original. They’ve made some stylistic changes and increased the performance across the board.
Overall impression
The Mazda MX5 is still a joy to drive. It puts the driver at the heart of the experience and you’ll feel every twist and turn of the road beneath you. It looks better than ever before and performs well in the fuel economy department. It still leaves its competitors in the dust when it comes to driveability and price. When Top Gear featured (and praised) the MX5 this year, the Mazda site crashed due to demand. This is a fantastic little sports car.
Competitors
When it comes to direct competitors to the MX5, there are very few. The Lotus Elise is the only car that comes close to providing the fun and excitement. But, expect to pay a lot more for the privilege. Within the price range, the Toyota GT83 is perhaps the closest competitor. Having said that, it doesn’t have quite the same thrill and excitement that the Mazda provides.
Style
With the updated MX5, Mazda have gone to town on the new design. And in a good way! The new model is more angular, more aggressive and much more beautiful. Its headlights peer out of fierce looking eyelids. They say don’t mess with a good thing. But when it comes to the MX5, we’re glad they did.
The drive
Let’s get down to the important part. Is it as fun as its predecessor? Quite simply, yes. The original, iconic car is unprecedented in its driveability. It hugged the road and every turn felt gloriously responsive. For that reason, it made it a bestseller at Lifestyle Motor Group. The new model is no different. If anything, it’s better! Mazda have shaved 100kg off the weight, giving it even more spark off the line. The perfect weight distribution (strictly 50-50) is an exercise in precise engineering. You can’t have this much fun for the same price anywhere else.
The engine
The engine itself is a modest 1.5 litre affair producing a 129bhp. When the car is this light and perfectly crafted, that engine is everything you need. It leaps off the start line and roars to its top speed. If you’re after more power, a 2.0 litre will also be available.
Running costs
Despite the ferocity of this car, it has brilliant economic credentials. The engine is very efficient. Mazda haven’t turned in the exact miles per gallon rate just yet. But when we get behind the wheel, we’ll be sure to report back. Mazda have an excellent reputation for efficient engines so we expect it to perform well.
If you’re looking for a small sports car with tons of character, personality and excitement, this is it. In fact, it’s your only choice.
