Mazda MX-5 Review
Published: 21st November 2005
Mazda MX-5
All Mazda MX-5's have reflected the Japanese ideal of Jinba Ittai, the symbiosis between rider and horse. Instead of focusing on pure speed, Mazda developers worked to achieve the ideal of a balanced driving machine that provides high levels of driving enjoyment. On driving the car on Faro's North East winding roads we experienced the uncompromised driving pleasure that is the new MX-5 which results from the perfectly balanced 50:50 weight distribution, front midship engine, rear wheel drive and low centre of gravity.
The ride is supple and the steering is direct always giving the correct amount of feedback to the driver keeping you composed and in tune with the road ahead.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), alarm, immobiliser and dual front airbags are standard on the entry level car and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), with TCS (Traction Control System), Limited Slip Differential and side airbags standard on the 2.0 litre model. We would like to have seen safety as standard with all features especially side airbags standard throughout the range.
Mazda have retained the soft top which has proved so successful and it can now be opened and closed with one hand using a single central latch handle in just six seconds. The roof can be closed without getting out the car and can be folded flush with the boot lid without the need of a tonneau cover. A detachable hard top is also available .
Mazda have worked hard at reducing turbulence when driving with the roof down and for when open top motoring becomes too intense climate controlled air conditioning is available.
The interior has been vastly improved - the well crafted cabin is simple yet functional enabling it to compete with its German rivals. Storage space was certainly at a premium in the outgoing model however, the new MX-5 features three storage compartments behind the seats one of which is lockable. The large lockable glove compartment features a volume of 7.3 litres and there is a useful storage net in the passenger foot well. The doors have integral bottle holders and the centre console incorporates cupholders. The boot is spacious with a volume of 150 litres, 6 more than the outgoing model.
Mazda have successfully reinvented the iconic MX-5 and pound for pound there is little to beat the fun to be had with it. Whatever your driving ability the MX-5 will bring a smile to your face and combined with Mazda's renowned reliability, high residual values and Zoom, Zoom, Zoom appeal ensures that you will not be disappointed.
A more in-depth review and road test will be published early in the New Year, when we have had the chance to drive a right hand drive car on British roads.
