– By Mike Ridley-Smith –
The Mazda MX-5 is one of those iconic cars that you have probably looked at on the road with a grin and nod of respect. Whether you are into small convertible sportscars or not, everyone knows they have a reputation for being light and simple with excellent handling.
This leads to the inevitable question mark over every new incarnation – have they respected the DNA or moved in a different direction. The big risk with the MX-5 is giving it too much power, too much weight or bulking it up. Recently I jumped behind the wheel of the base 1.5L manual model to answer these questions. I am thrilled to report that the latest model is brilliant and is everything a fan of the model would want.
The most significant change in the vehicle is the new styling. Previous generations have appeared to be gentle evolutions of the theme. In 2016, elegant curves will just not cut it, and the latest MX-5 gets a dose of the angular lights and sharp body creases seen across the Mazda range.
Nevertheless, the sharper suit covers a body possessing all the right proportions from the small boot, long bonnet, low stance and just right wheel arches.
The nice gentle rise in waistline from mid door to rear wheel arch echos the classic sixties Triumphs and drop-top Jaguars. None of the 18 or 19 inch wheels seen on every other wannabe sports car either – the base model sits on 16 inch wheels that look just right. Top up or down, this is a good looking car.
True to the original blueprint for the MX-5, engines are kept modestly sized. The base 1.5L with 96kW (a 2.0L with 118kW is also available) will not blitz the ‘on paper’ 0-100km/h times of many competitors but in the real world will give you all the power you will need.
The essence of the MX-5 is modest power with low weight to give a handling experience unlike any other car. Once behind the wheel you realize that the default driving mode is high revs, work the gearbox and enjoy the raspy engine note. The gearbox works a treat and there is Hill Hold Assist that banishes those hill start embarrassments to history.
The handling of the MX-5 is also true to the original’s DNA. Sharp and predictable without being hard as nails over the rough stuff. You get the go kart feeling without needing to wear a helmet.
The smallish wheels with 195 tyres ensure that mechanical grip is not too high with accurate feedback at the limit without being intimidating. I was able to get the MX-5 out onto some serious twisty bits whilst it was bucketing down at night and I felt completely alive but totally comfortable.
Hints of oversteer are not overly dramatic and turn in remains pin sharp at all times. Honestly, over the course of a week, I was left smiling ear to ear every time I dove the car, with many laugh out loud moments.
Visibility with the top down is obviously a non-issue but, as for all convertibles, get comfortable using the mirrors with the top up. Speaking of getting the top up or down, it is simplicity itself. Unlatch just one lever above the rear view mirror and drop the top with one hand until it clicks into position. Pulling over and getting it up as the rain starts to fall takes moments. No need for the weight penalty or cost implications of an electric roof.
Interior wise the MX-5 is also simple. Everything is packaged neatly and within easy reach. Whilst there is an ever growing need for bling in vehicles, the MX-5 does without, so that you simply concentrate on the driving.
Indeed, in the lower spec non-GT version you avoid the superfluous MZD connect infotainment centre, and get a system that any chump can use without resorting to the instructions. It still has the items you use everyday, Bluetooth streaming and phone interconnectivity and single button radio station selection but without those once a year toys such as G force meters and economy graphs.
This base model in manual form comes in at an MSP of $31,990 and uses only 6.1L/100km. This is extraordinary value and I really can’t see the need for the larger engine or the GT spec with bigger wheels and higher spec infotainment.
If you ever thought about owning a convertible, drive the MX-5 and see why this car remains one of motoring’s genuine icons and has been scooping up awards all over the world.
