Search

Mazda MX-5 2.0i road test report

2.0i

It’s hard to believe that Mazda’s MX-5 has now been on sale in the UK for almost 20 years, but its longevity is no doubt a result of its brilliant dynamics. Infallible reliability, combined with eye-catching looks and a driving experience that can’t be bettered for the price mean that the MX-5 fully deserves its title as the world’s best-selling sports car.

Road Test Reports Says 4.5 star rating
A front-facing image of the Mazda MX-5 2.0i

Print

Image number 2 of the Mazda MX-5 2.0i Image number 3 of the Mazda MX-5 2.0i Image number 4 of the Mazda MX-5 2.0i
JACK SAYS

Performance Performance - 4 stars

The MX-5 started life with more humble 1.6 and 1.8-litre engines, but when the third generation appeared in 2005 it swelled to 1.8 and 2.0-litre powerplants. Far from the most gutsy engines, the 2.0-litre that we tried was well suited to the car. With 158bhp on tap, it offers much more power than before, which makes for extra fun – especially the 7.9 second 0-62mph sprint – but it does loose some of the characteristic revviness from MX-5s of old. That said, it’s still happy to reach for the redline and is incredibly rewarding through the twisty bits and the current car maintains the idea that you don’t have to be hurtling along at frightening speeds to have fun.

Ride & Handling Ride & Handling - 5 stars

This is the little Mazda’s trump card. Few, if any, sub-£20,000 cars can come anywhere near the MX-5 in the handling stakes, as it always has, and always will be, a pure driver’s car. The current car employs a multi-link rear suspension set-up, which differs from the double wishbones on the MkI and MkII, but it still corners with the utmost precision. Weight distribution is nigh on perfect and the chassis exceptional, so the driver is always aware of what’s going on at tarmac level. It’s grippy enough but, being rear-wheel-drive, there’s always the chance of a bit of oversteer if you’re over zealous during a corner. But the MX-5 is so beautifully predictable that it’s very easy to correct and can become quite good fun. The brakes are strong and more than up to the job, while softer damping means its also easier to live with than older versions, if a little more prone to body roll.

Build Quality & Reliability Build Quality & Reliability - 5 stars

Mazda’s sports car has never been criticised for the way it’s screwed together and that certainly hasn’t changed with the current generation. The earliest MX-5 was the first car to bring genuine reliability and everyday usability to the two-seater sports car crowd, so the current model had a lot to live up to, but it does its job well, with minimal reported faults other than scuffs, scrapes and the occasional bit of track day damage. Dash materials are excellent, especially when you consider the cost of the car and everything else that it does so well.

Safety & Security Safety & Security - 4 stars

The current model is the safest yet. Mazda increased the rigidity of the MX-5 with the generous use of high-strength steel, which made for a body and underpinnings that could withstand crashes much more competently than either of its predecessors. A beefed-up rear bulkhead and A-pillar add to the already impressive safety spec. The boffins at Mazda were obviously well aware that the MX-5 would appeal to the enthusiastic driver, which is why the more powerful 2.0-litre model gets switchable dynamic stability control as standard, to reign in ham-fisted drivers. Protective types need not worry either, as the MX-5 gets remote central locking, as well as a Thatcham Category One alarm and immobiliser.

Space & Practicality Space & Practicality - 4 stars

Don’t expect to be lugging furniture or even more than one passenger around in the MX-5, but space has ever really been a central feature. The current model does, however, boast a much roomier cabin than the MkI or II MX-5. Mazda introduced a surprising amount of cubby holes with this model, such as those behind the seats. The glove box is pretty cavernous, too, and there are even four cup holders – perhaps a little excessive for a two-seater car. The boot is far from massive, but at 150 litres it’s definitely a serious improvement on early models, so if you’re resigned to the fact that you won’t be carrying vast amounts of luggage or people around then it’s not so impractical.

Ownership & Value Ownership & Value - 5 stars

As long as space isn’t a priority it’s difficult to argue against an MX-5. It’s just as great to drive as sports cars that cost three times as much and running costs are low, too. Servicing charges are very reasonable, too, and 12,500-mile intervals even more inviting. What’s more, the current generation has been around long enough for early examples to become fantastic value second-hand – 2005 models can be picked up for around £8,000 now. Thanks to its popularity, parts supply is as plentiful as it gets and there are a whole load of specialists that can help out with new or used parts, tune-ups and advice. But you’ll only really get the gist of just how great a car the MX-5 is on a lonely bit of B-road with loads of tight bends.

Submitted: 21/01/2009 16:11:00

Roadsters & Cabriolets comparison road tests

Mazda road tests

  Available on the App Store

Read real opinions: Thousands of consumer reviews on all major car and van models.
Make your voice heard: Submit your own consumer review about the car or van you drive.
Learn more

 Road Test Reports App screenshots

Other people need your help

Your review will help others decide which vehicle to buy. By spending just a little bit of time filling out a review you can share your experiences with other drivers, giving information only owners will talk about, no marketing spiel, just the real thing. We publish all reviews, whether you rate the vehicle high or low. We are impartial. We are independent. We are committed to 100% real reviews. Please give others the benefit of your advice: give them your review.

Your review will be checked for offensive language within the next few days and then put on RoadTestReports.co.uk and all of our partners websites.

Have your say!

Submit your own review

Lease Buy

* Required

^ Back to Top