MOTORING
Mazda
MX5
The latest incarnation of the superb Mazda
MX5 really seems to be able to do all things for
everyone who aspires to own it or drive it. This
4th generation, first appeared in the 90’s has
really gone back towards its original concept,
the latest version is both shorter and lighter
than the model that it replaces and this has
to be a bonus point in respect of the handling
and general dynamics of the vehicle, writes
Bob Hickman.
The MX5 really is one of those cars that has
always looked the part, the new derivative
is now offered with a 1.5-litre or 2-litre engine
and whilst you may think that is not a
particularly powerful configuration because
of its lightweight front engine rear wheel
drive configuration, power is not really what is
necessary to have sheer out and out fun in this
delightful vehicle.
My particular test car was equipped with the
1.5-litre engine, this produces 131 bhp and is
more than sufficient to give a feel good, bit of
fun grin on your face from driving it. This engine
allows the vehicle to have a top speed of
127mph, and gallop up to 0-60 in marginally
over 8 seconds, a combined fuel is quoted
as 47 mpg, however during my extensive
opportunity of testing the vehicle and over 500
miles in a variety of roads I achieved marginally
over 40mpg. The CO figure at 139/g/km is
never going to put it in to the very cheap tax
but then hey who cares.
The MX5 is about agility, its new engines are
smaller and this allows them to be tucked in
and the vehicle sits lower, this helps in respect
of handling. Extensive use of aluminium for
bonnet, boot and wings have also added to
weight saving.
The general shape, although it looks a bit more
muscular at the front, still has its DNA from its
original pop up headlamp model of the 90’s
and I don’t really believe that any one is going
to fall out with the new design.
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