Mazda MX-5

The Mazda MX-5 isn’t about opulence. It’s about intimacy, simplicity, and purposeful design. The cabin is compact and driver-centric. It cocoons the driver with a snug fit. The low-slung seating position, short-throw shifter, and centrally located tachometer lend a cockpit-like vibe. The dashboard features a symmetrical and low-profile design. It uses a mix of soft-touch plastics on the upper surfaces and harder, durable plastics on lower areas. The heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning buttons (HVAC) controls are physical and intuitive, with large rotary dials and tactile feedback. 

The Mazda MX-5 is equipped with leather-trimmed seats, available in black or optional tan Nappa leather. The seats are comfortable and provides excellent support without excessive bolstering. But taller drivers may find the cabin snug, and the seating position may feel slightly off because of the alignment of the steering wheel and dashboard. The steering wheel, shift knob, and parking brake handle are leather-wrapped. Soft-touch plastics and synthetic leather coverings are used on various surfaces. These contribute to an upscale feel.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Driver-centric design 

Cons: Limited space for taller passengers

Features and Technology

The Mazda MX-5 gets an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that replaces the previous 7.0-inch screen. The new unit offers improved visibility and touch functionality when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. For the first time, the MX-5 gets Amazon Alexa, allowing voice control over climate settings, audio, and even connected smart home devices. Available on higher trims, the Bose nine-speaker system includes headrest-mounted speakers, enhancing audio quality even with the top down. 

The instrument cluster has been redesigned for improved readability, with a new high-contrast display. It combines analog and digital displays, with the tachometer and speedometer remaining traditional, while the digital part of the cluster handles notifications for fuel, temperature, and additional settings like driving modes. 

While the soft-top is lightweight and easy to operate, it requires manual handling, which may be less convenient than automatic systems.

Pros and cons

Pros: Modern tech integration

Cons: Manual soft-top

Boot Space and Storage

The Mazda MX-5 has a boot capacity of 130 litres. It’s the same across the soft-top convertible and the retractable fastback models. It’s small even by sports car standards, but is reasonably usable because of its smart, squared-off design. The boot opening is narrow but deep. Mazda has cleverly designed it without a spare tire (a repair kit is provided), freeing up some extra room. 

Unlike most convertibles, the boot space of the MX-5 remains unaffected when the roof is down, even though it’s manual powered. 

Cabin storage space rather limited in the Mazda MX5. The car gets two removable cup holders. One can be placed between the seats, and the other by the passenger’s side near the transmission tunnel. They’re functional but not ideally placed. There are no traditional door bins, further limiting in-cabin storage. There’s a small shelf behind the seats, and the armrest has a shallow tray suitable for keys or a phone.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Deep, usable boot

Cons: Minimal cabin storage options

The Mazda MX-5 measures 3,915mm in length, 1,735mm in width, and 1,230mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,310mm. 

The upgraded Mazda MX-5 presents a thoughtfully refreshed exterior that honours its classic roadster heritage while integrating contemporary design elements. In the front, the car sports updated headlights with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs). The latter replaces the previous separate DRL units. The car gets all-round LED lighting. The front grille has been subtly recontoured to accommodate a radar sensor for adaptive cruise control. It blends functionality with design without disrupting the front-end appeal. The revised lower bumper inlets are cleaner and more aggressive.

The Mazda MX-5 retains its signature proportions with minimal overhangs and a low-slung stance. Buyers can choose between a traditional soft-top, or the retractable fastback hardtop. The latter model comes with a power-retractable roof with distinctive flying buttresses.

The rear-end of the Mazda MX-5 is modest but meaningful. The taillights now get concentric ring pattern, lending depth and a high-tech edge. A slightly re-profiled rear bumper and diffuser area improves airflow and stability. The two exhaust tips are cleanly integrated and are subtly upsized.

The Mazda MX-5 is available in White, Ceramic, Jet Black, Soul Red, Machine Grey, Snowflake White Pearl, and Eternal Blue colour options.   

Pros and cons

Pros: Refined lighting enhancements

Cons: Minimal exterior overhaul

In real-world conditions, the Mazda MX-5 returns a mileage of 11.5kmpl in city driving and 14.5kmpl on the highway. The new MX-5 gets a lightweight construction. Its weight is reduced by approximately 68kg compared to previous models to enhance its agility, responsiveness and fuel efficiency.

Pros and cons

Pros: Impressive fuel economy

Cons: Some rivals offer better highway mileage

The Mazda MX-5 retains its double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension. But the new version has undergone some subtle retuning. The car now gets revised Bilstein dampers (on higher trims) that deliver more composure over broken surfaces without sacrificing road feel. The soft-top variant rides slightly softer because of lower weight compared to the retractable fastback) that has a slightly firmer suspension to manage the added roof weight. 

The car absorbs most city bumps well, particularly at low speeds. However, harsh potholes and rough tarmac can still be felt, as expected in a car with a short wheelbase and performance-oriented setup. Improved insulation and slightly quieter tires make long drives more bearable than older versions, though wind and road noise are still notable at higher speeds.

The riding position is low and close to the rear axle, which adds to the feeling of being part of the car. It’s great for engagement but slightly tiring for daily commuting.

The Mazda MX-5 has a 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, and low curb weight that lends an exceptional balance. Mid-corner adjustability is superb. The car responds eagerly to throttle inputs and encourages active driver involvement.

Pros: Superb handling and balance

Cons: Limited ride comfort on long trips

The Mazda MX-5 retains the four-cylinder, naturally aspirated, Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 181PS/205Nm. The motor is mated to a six-speed manual transmission (MT). No turbocharging or hybridization is available in the Mazda MX-5. 

The power delivery is immediate and linear, making the car feel alive throughout the rev range. Unlike turbocharged engines, there's no delay in response, and the surge of torque in the midrange is surprisingly usable for real-world driving. The exhaust note has been mildly refined, producing a sharper growl under load. The clutch offers progressive engagement with excellent feedback.

On urban roads, the clutch is light with a low engagement point, making it easy to drive in traffic. The steering is ultra-light at low speeds, ideal for tight sharp U-turns or parallel parking. 

Despite its size, the Mazda MX-5 is surprisingly planted at highway speeds, courtesy the car’s low centre of gravity and rigid chassis. But cabin insulation is minimal. There’s noticeable wind and tire noise above 110kmph because of the soft-top.

Pros and cons

Pros: Engaging and balanced handling

Cons: Limited power output

The MX-5 is equipped with the Mazda i-Activsense suite of advanced driver-assist features. It comprises features like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The Mazda MX-5 comes with a rearview camera and is equipped with radar sensors that’s utilized to monitor the distance to vehicles ahead. The car comes with a rollover protection system that provides structural support to protect the occupants.

Pros and cons

Pros: Comprehensive safety suite

Cons: Limited customization options

Competitor Comparison

The BMW Z4 is one of the closest competitors of the Mazda MX-5. Both are rear-wheel-drive roadsters, but they cater to different audiences. The MX-5 is lightweight, nimble, and affordable, prioritizing pure driving joy with minimal frills. In contrast, the BMW Z4 is more powerful, refined, and luxurious, offering turbocharged engines, a tech-rich cabin, and greater comfort for longer drives. The MX-5 excels in simplicity and engagement, while the Z4 provides premium features and practicality, including more cargo space. The MX-5 is for budget-friendly fun, while the Z4 offers a more refined, grand-touring experience. Both offer open-top thrills.

Conclusion and Final Verdict

The Mazda MX-5 is a thrilling, affordable roadster that offers unmatched driving excitement. While its compact size and limited practicality may not suit everyone, enthusiasts will appreciate its precise handling, sleek design, and modern tech. It's an iconic choice for those seeking pure driving pleasure.