Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Tech 2dr Car Review - May 2013

REVIEW
List Price: £21,595
Tax Band: I
Insurance Group: 27
MPG: 36.2
CO2: 181
0-62 Mph: 7.6 secs
BHP: 158 BHP
Range: 398 miles
CarSite Verdict:  4/5
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 convertibles available on the market. This version of the MX-5 delivers good sporty performance from the two litre engine and handles very well around the corners, although it isn't quite as efficient as it could be.

PROS:  The firmer suspension on this version of the car means that it is a little more fun to drive, while it also comes with a few luxuries and is a very reliable model when compared with some of its rivals.

CONS:  The engine can be a little noisy and the space available isn't particularly great, while the engines aren't as efficient as those seen in rival small sports cars.

Behind the Wheel

Driving experience is one of the most important aspects of the MX-5, and the rear wheel drive set-up of the car means it has plenty of grip and flies around corners. The steering on the car is also very good, being light yet responsive and a firm ride that keeps the body under control without becoming uncomfortable. The 2.0 litre petrol engine offers good sports car performance, sending this little car from 0-62mph in just 7.6 seconds, while the top speed of 132mph means the car is also very comfortable being put through its paces on the motorway too.

The driving position may take a little getting used to as the steering wheel doesn't adjust for reach, while the pedals are oddly off-set, but the seats are very supportive and comfortable. Refinement is not one of the strong points of the car, with lots of wind noise and engine noise to be heard in the cabin whether the roof is up or down.

Looks & Equipment

The design of the MX-5 has been evolving slowly over the decades since it was first launched, but it is fair to say that it is still a very attractive little car that doesn't look dated at all. The rounded headlights and the curved air intake give the car the appearance of a laughing face, while the sleek lines and pert rounded tail of the car also very attractive. The cabin is designed for durability rather than style, but along with the alloy wheels provide a very polished package on the whole.

Heated seats and climate control are among the features that help to make the cabin a little more comfortable on longer journeys, while the bluetooth connectivity and the stereo system is also very good. The car is also delivered with a good level of safety equipment, which is very important when it comes to looking after the soft top car.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

A two seat roadster is never going to be the most practical car on the market, but it is still a car that has enough space to accommodate two adults in comfort with plenty of headroom whether the roof is up or down. The boot isn't exactly a generous space, but should take an overnight each for both of the occupants as long as they can travel light.

The car is delivered with a series of air bags to look after the passenger within, while it is also supplied with stability control that helps to keep the car under control. One of the most attractive features of the MX-5 is that it enjoys an excellent reputation for reliability, and having evolved over many years the new MX-5 should largely be problem free.

Value for Money

One of the features that has always attracted people to the MX-5 is that it is generally a very affordable soft-top roadster, and this version has a competitive list price of £21,595. While the engine isn't the most efficient on the market, it still offers fuel efficiency of 36.2mpg, and insurance costs aren't too bad for this kind of car either. The main problem for the MX-5 is the introduction of the Mini Roadster which is cheaper to buy and also has lower running costs while still being a lot of fund.

The resale values of the MX-5 cars are also very good, and those that have been dealer serviced throughout the lifetime of the car are likely to fetch a premium when it comes to selling the vehicle. The car is supplied with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty and roadside breakdown assistance for the life of the warranty.

Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Tech 2dr Car Review - by 
All Mazda MX-5 Reviews
Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE 2dr - February 2012
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,...
Mazda MX-5 2.0i SE 2dr - February 2012
You’ll be hard pressed to find a more fun drive for the cost of this nippy 2-seat roadster. The Mazda MX-5’s excellent reputation for excellent handling and reliability has helped its popularity, a...
Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Tech 2dr - May 2013
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...
Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 1.8i SE 2dr - February 2012
This entry level Mazda Roadster Coupé offers the looks and some of the feel of a sports car on a much smaller budget. Stripped down to the bone to keep the price down, you get very little refinemen...
Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0i SE 2dr - February 2012
The MX-5 is such a polished performer, that it is difficult to choose the best feature. Fabulous handling, sleek styling, a well equipped interior and a very simple roof make drop-top driving simpl...
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