Mazda MX-5 2006 review

Did you know we're in the middle of a drought? A dry winter means we're looking at hosepipe bans from next month onwards, and the Met Office is predicting one of the hottest, sunniest summers in years.

Bad news for gardens, but great for me, as I'm the proud keeper of our new long-term Mazda MX-5 2.0 with Option Pack, which promises a summer of wind-in-the-hair motoring to enjoy.

However, with temperatures currently struggling to get above freezing, how has the little car been coping in the cold? Very well is the answer. The small cabin means the heater makes short work of warming the interior on frosty mornings, with split heat distribution to feet and hands. In fact, the hot air flow is so good that I've been brave enough to drop the roof and experience some bitterly chilly but beautifully sunny weather.

It helps that the MX-5 remains free from buffeting at speed and that the roof is simple to operate. There's no electric motor to add weight - simply undo a latch and the top folds back on to the rear deck. A redesigned stowage system means you no longer need a fiddly tonneau cover, and a quick push locks the roof into its stored position. The only downside is it's not easy to raise from the driver's seat - that would require a double-jointed elbow and masses of muscle.

I've loved the styling of the MX-5 since its launch in 1989, but I do think the latest model's aggressive looks add to its road presence. The high ride height makes the car seem slightly awkward, but the True Red paintwork sets the tone well. Mean-while, the chic and stylish cabin complements the new exterior butchness perfectly.

Our car cost £17,400, including the £800 Option Pack, which adds 16-inch alloys, a better quality cloth soft-top, leather steering wheel with audio controls, plus stainless steel scuff plates. The engine is perky, but on the motorway it screams out for an extra gear - included with the 2.0 Sport model, which costs an extra £1,500.

Nevertheless, the MX-5 is a hoot to drive and feels like a grown-up go-kart with its precise steering and handling. For now, I'm seeing it through rose-tinted glasses, but will the lack of a sixth gear and noisy engine become a thorn in my side?

Second opinion

I'm also a big fan of the MX-5's styling. The bright red paintwork and five-spoke alloys fitted to our car look great. But there's an unsightly large gap between the wheels and the Mazda's bodywork. Cabin quality is significantly improved, yet despite offering four cup-holders, storage cubbies are few and far between.
Ross Pinnock, motoring writer