Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE 2dr Car Review - February 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £18,495
Tax Band: H
Insurance Group: 21
MPG: 39.8
CO2: 167
0-62 Mph: 9.9 secs
BHP: 124 BHP
Range: 438 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.5/5
The MX-5 is such a polished performer, that it is difficult to choose the best feature. Fabulous handling, sleek styling well equipped and a very simple roof making drop top driving simple and fun, this car has it all. On top of that it is practical and reliable. So if you’re in the market for a sporty little two seater without spending a bomb, you really need not look any further! This model is the most popular in the range due to the punchy power of the petrol engine. This is the entry level spec, but for the price tag of £17,990, you still get some great kit for your money.

PROS:  This car doesn’t just look great but it is great to drive. It has great residuals and the roof mechanism is incredibly simple.

CONS:  The great looks of the MX-5 far outweigh any negatives, but the interior is a little bit dull and the boot is very small.

Behind the Wheel

The MX-5 isn’t necessarily the fastest car out there, but this model is the quickest in the range. The 1.8 petrol engine gives 126bhp and torque figures of 123lb-ft. This gives acceleration speeds of 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 121mph.

The MX-5 has its engine in the front, driving the rear wheels in a classic sports car set up, giving great balance. Although you have to keep the engine revs high whilst driving on B roads, the gear change is light and precise. A lack of lean whilst taking corners still makes for a smooth ride, even with low profile tyres. Whichever model you choose, the MX-5 has great dynamics.

Looks & Equipment

This is the third generation of MX-5, so it is now easily recognisable, although there are signs of development from the original. The rounded nose and tail can been seen in all models of MX-5, due to the long bonnet, passenger cell and boot dimensions. The design of the MX-5 offers little in the way of novelty value, but it is attractive and unfussy, which if you look at sales of previous MX-5s, is just how the buyers want it.

From the moment you lay eyes on the interior of the MX-5, its Japanese roots are evident. All the dials and controls are well laid out and built. The interior features lots of black, and there are just enough alloy highlights to keep you interested. But it’s a little conventional which makes it a bit boring compared to some other cars in the class. The MX-5’s roof is easy to raise and is stored with ease, all you have to do is release the catch and flip it back. If the heavens open when you’re enjoying an open top jaunt, then simply press a button and the roof raises, clipping back into place.

Kit wise you get: five-speed manual gearbox, remote central locking, alarm/immobiliser, alloy wheels and electric windows are standard, a decent stereo, and power-operated mirrors.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

Despite this being a two seater convertible, it is actually quite practical, mainly thanks to the roof arrangement which doesn’t take up too much boot space. The boot is not that big however and holds just 150litres. This car only seats two people, but those two seats are adequate, even if you’re tall, so it’s comfortable even on longer journeys. The seats are very supportive and adjustable so a comfy position should be easy to find. The steering wheel also adjusts.

Mazda builds some of the most reliable cars on the market, and looking at the quality of build and finish, MX-5 owners shouldn’t need to worry. Failing suspension and a leaky roof are not things you should need to think about here.

For a small, two seater convertible, you get a good amount of safety kit for your money. Safety kit includes: ESP, capable braking system and traction control, front and side airbags are standard on all cars, while the passenger airbag can be deactivated if children are being carried.

Value for Money

Resale values of the Mazda MX-5 should stay high due to the fact there isn’t a huge number of nearly new MX-5s around. The benefit of a relatively small engine is that emissions and mpg are good. Emitting only 167g/km and giving 39.8mpg, fuel bills and road tax are reasonable. In short then a good value car for that sporty driving edge.

Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE 2dr Car Review - by 
All Mazda MX-5 Reviews
Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE 2dr - February 2012
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The MX-5 is one of the original open top sports cars, and has developed a well deserved reputation for being a reliable car that is also great fun to drive and one of the most affordable convertibl...
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Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0i SE 2dr - February 2012
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You might want to read reviews for other Sports cars that you can then compare to the Mazda MX-5. Here are some popular Mazda MX-5 alternatives:

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