Mazda MX-5
Ratings
4 stars
Summary
Recommended. The Mk 3 MX-5 retains the best elements of the old ones and improves on everything else.
Review
Back in 1989 the original Mazda MX-5 rewrote the rule book on two seat roadsters. It even earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the all-time top seller in the segment. The third generation MX-5's familiar styling make it instantly recognisable - but that's where the similarities over the earlier cars end. Underneath the skin it's completely fresh - bigger, more spacious, safer and featuring a far higher-quality cabin.
Taller drivers will find the cabin offers reasonable space compared to the cramped previous generation models. It's a snug fit, and the steering wheel only adjusts for rake and not reach, although higher quality materials mean it's a far better place to spend time. Practicality is limited by a small boot, there's barely half the luggage space you'd find in a typical family hatchback, although there are some useful cubby holes between the two seats. The fabric roof mechanism is refreshingly easy to use - unlatch it, fling it backwards and carry on.
On the road MX-5 is a hoot to drive thanks to rear-wheel drive and enthusiastic engines. Some rigorous weight saving ensures that it's only fractionally heavier than the previous generation model, while high-strength steel has given it a far more sturdy bodyshell. The engine sounds great with the roof up or down and the short-throw gearlever delivers rifle-bolt accuracy. Ride quality is decent and handling is sublime - with plenty of grip and progressive, predictable behaviour when the limit approaches, plus the reassurance of an optional stability control system. The basic, 126 bhp 1.8 litre engine delivers decent performance, although most buyers will aspire towards the considerably more rapid 160 bhp 2.0 litre version.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
4 star
It's classic MX-5 updated for the 21st century. All the recognisable features are visible, and if you were expecting big changes over the old car you'll be disappointed.
Handling
5 star
Brilliant - the MX-5 is easy to control, encourages you to push on and is forgiving if you don't quite get things quite right. It's unintimidating, but still able to reward keener drivers.
Comfort
3 star
It's roomier than its predecessors, but if you're tall or big it's still a bit cramped especially with the roof up. The driving position is good, with the gear lever well placed for swift, sporty changes.
Quality & Reliability
4 star
The car feels very solid and well put together, and the simplicity of the roof mechanism means there's little to go wrong.
Performance
4 star
Decently rapid, although the 1.8 litre version can't muster much more than
Roominess
2 star
Not the car if you've got luggage! The boot is small, the glove box smaller and there's a lockable cubby hole between the seats plus two more behind them. And that's it.
Running Costs
4 star
Reasonably priced servicing, tightly controlled depreciation and good fuel economy - 35 mpg is possible from either engine - makes the MX-5 a surprisingly sensible place to put your money. Insurance groups are low compared with rivals.
Value for money
4 star
If you want a small roadster the MX-5 has pretty much got the segment sewn up now the MG TF seems to have died forever and the MR2 will be pulled in 2006. Prices have gone up compared to previous generation - although higher equipment levels offset this somewhat.
