MX-5 Blows Its Top

The years 1989 and 1998 are famous in motoring for the debuts of MkI and MkII of the legendary MX-5 - and now you can add 2005 to that list. Mazda unveiled the third generation of its best-selling roadster to crowds of onlookers at this week's Geneva Motor Show.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Matt Joy

02nd March 2005

One of the strengths of the first version was its simple good looks, and on the new car designers have tried to in-clude modern themes while paying hom-age to the original. The shape is clearly related to its predecessors, with trademark short overhangs front and rear.

And the new model is slightly bigger, losing the narrowed section between the axles to create greater interior space and a more substantial appearance. The MX-5 retains its fabric roof, which lies flush with the vehicle's rear when down. A detachable hard-top will also be available, but plans for a folding metal lid have been dumped. The interior is inspired by the Ibuki concept seen at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show.

Bigger 17-inch alloys sit in more pronounced wheelarches, while a wider track gives increased grip. Lightweight aluminium components help to reduce mass and improve weight distribution. Two new petrol engines will be available - a 1.8-litre offering around 124bhp and 167Nm of torque and a 2.0-litre with likely outputs of 158bhp and 188Nm. An all-new six-speed manual gearbox will be joined by a five-ratio unit and a six-speed auto with wheel-mounted paddles. Prices haven't been confirmed, but the new MX-5 arrives in late summer.

For an alternative review of the latest Mazda MX-5 visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk