Mazda MX-5 1.8i Sport Review

MX 5 1.8i Sport

Comfort and Refinement

I don't think comfort is a word that describes the MX-5 it isn't a luxurious car, the cabin has just enough space for two people and with the roof up there is adequate head room. Head and leg room could prove troublesome for the taller driver but with the roof down head room is not a problem.

The leather heated sport seats have integral head restraints and are supremely supportive even when cornering at speed and the Nardi leather steering wheel and gear shift knob are very tactile.

The 1.8i Sport version we tested had a premium cloth soft top which was remarkably easy to put up and down although once we had discovered the joy of open top motoring it mostly stayed down.

In terms of refinement the MX-5 has the basics power steering, electric windows, remote central locking with boot release, heated glass rear window, front fog lamps and electric aerial. What more do you need? Well air-conditioning would be useful especially in the summer when it is very hot and you put the hood up to stop your head baking and in the damp winter weather when the car mists up. Apart from the lack of air-con the car is perfect anything else would detract from its basic appeal - The driving experience makes you feel special.