Mazda MX-5

Mazda has done a great job with the MX-5. It is modern yet instantly recognisable, with more room, an improved ride yet still great handling. It has retained its sports car charms.

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Rating:
On the road price: £16,530 - £19,030
For : Roomy cabin, quality interior, decent stowage, slick gearbox, fun handling, styling, price
Against : Engines lack character, body movement, air con not standard

Driving:
The rear-driven MX-5 doesn't offer scintillating performance, but it has never been about pure power - its unique selling point is the agile and rewarding handling. Crucially, the latest model hasn't lost this. It does feel heavier than its predecessor, but the accurate and sharp steering remains, as does the sense of fun. It is quite softly sprung and there's a reasonable amount of body movement, yet once in a corner the damping is excellent and it remains composed. Grip levels are high, but when they are exceeded, the rear end breaks away progressively, while the fluid steering means the car is easily controllable. The brakes are strong and positive, and the softer springing means the ride is the best of this group - although over really bumpy surfaces, some of the suspension movement is felt in the interior. Nevertheless, the Mazda manages to remain easy and relaxing to drive, yet at the same time offers plenty of involvement and fun on a twisty road. Both 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engines, however, are a bit characterless in comparison, though the firm clutch and precise gearshift are easy and rewarding.

Marketplace:
From a styling point of view, most MX-5 fans will say the original pop-up headlight model was the purest version. So it's little wonder the newcomer takes much of its inspiration from the 1989 machine. The whole car is unmistakably MX-5, particularly the oval front air intake - but it's been given a thoroughly modern makeover. One big difference is that the bold side profile and bulging arches promote a more muscular look. The car has also grown in size, although the larger dimensions only show when it's parked next to an older model. Two engines are offered, a 138bhp 1.8-litre and a 158bhp 2.0-litre. But competition is sparse; the Toyota MR2 has gone, leaving only costlier roadsters such as the BMW Z4, Audi TT and Lotus Elise. Many people buying the MX-5 will probably also be looking at a MINI Convertible, Vauxhall Astra TwinTop, Peugeot 206 CC - even a Mitsubishi Colt CZC.

Owning:
The extra size of the MX-5 certainly helps interior room. There's ample space for taller drivers, and the driving position is much lower. Reach and rake adjustment on the wheel and perfectly spaced pedals mean the driving position is superb. Plus, there's good visibility with the roof up or down. The glovebox is quite large, there are three storage compartments behind the seats and even four cup-holders. The 150-litre boot is modest, but the MX-5's interior strikes the right balance between simplicity and style. The dials are clear, while the big buttons on the centre console are easy to use. Build quality is great, too, and the piano black dash trim is a nice touch. The roof is not electric, but only one catch needs to be released before you tumble the hood. The operation is easy enough, and very fast if you're fit enough! Low servicing costs and 12,500-mile intervals deserve further praise, though a relatively heavy kerbweight means economy could be better; we averaged 31.5mpg in the 1.8. Depreciation levels are low, while list prices are good value - but standard equipment levels ought to be better.