Mazda MX-5 Review 2025
Mazda MX-5 At A Glance
An utter hoot to drive thanks to its great handling. Lighter, 1.5-litre versions feel best, while the 2.0-litre's extra performance is welcome. Well-equipped for the money.
Even for a two-seater, it's very snug inside. Technology nows looks dated but works well. How much longer will it remain on sale?
Insurance Groups are between 24–30
On average it achieves 103% of the official MPG figure
If you're craving a car that’ll put a smile on your face every time you drive it, the Mazda MX-5 was the default choice long before it became the only affordable two-seater convertible on sale. It's more fun to drive than any oversized SUV and won't cost a huge amount to run, but there's a catch — even for a car of this type it's tight on space for people and their luggage. Ten minutes behind the wheel and you'll soon learn how to pack light. Read our full Mazda MX-5 review to find out why it’s one of the best sports cars you can buy.
It's now a decade since the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 was launched, retaining similarly dainty proportions to the original from 1990. In today's world of where cars have grown in every dimension, the MX-5 evokes a sense of an altogether different era, in spite of still feeling modern by most standards. This review focuses on the fabric-roofed model with folding hard-top featured on the Mazda MX-5 RF covered separately.
There are two engines available for the Mazda MX-5 in 1.5- and 2.0-litre capacities. Both are petrol-powered, each uninhibited by turbos or hybrid technology, yet can prove to be surprisingly fuel efficient courtesy of this dinky sportscar weighing a little over 1100kg.
We really rate the entry-level 1.5-litre. With just 132PS at its disposal, it's not especially fast overall and would easily be out-dragged by a 2.5-tonne electric SUV, but dropping down a gear or two for brisker acceleration out of a corner is all part of the MX-5's charm. You can really wring its neck and you’ll never be travelling at silly speeds, while the raspy exhaust note adds to the enjoyment.
The 2.0-litre feels noticeably brisker and is far more flexible, confidently pulling from urban speeds in sixth gear. That ability improved notably in 2018 when its power output was upped to 184PS. That doesn't sound a lot but remember the Mazda MX-5 weighs significantly less than today's hot hatchbacks with even more grunt. There’s enough punch here to break traction and spin up the rear wheels with some lead-footed throttle application in wet conditions.
In traditional sports car style, the Mazda MX-5's drive is sent to the rear wheels, allowing the fronts to concentrate on how it tackles corners — and it’s bloody brilliant at that, aided by plenty of communication through the wheel to your hands and a near-perfect driving position. There's a small amount of body roll though twistier bends, but that adds to the enjoyment as you fling it around.
Another thing in the entry-level Mazda MX-5's favour are its diddy 16-inch alloy wheels and chunky, high-profile tyres that are fitted as standard. This combination allows it to ride with greater compliance than a sports car ought too, feeling as though it's perfectly set-up for uneven British B-roads.
As you’d expect, practicality isn’t the Mazda MX-5’s strong point, but even so it does feel tight inside, more so by 2025's standards. Taller drivers will particularly find getting in and out with the roof up a chore, as well as their hair flattened by it being constantly rubbed against the soft-top's interior lining. Without wishing to sound like doom-mongers, you really ought to check you can fit inside properly before getting too excited at the prospect of owning one.
There aren’t any rear seats... or even a conventional glove box, but there's a useful stowage box behind the seats, together with a pair of removal cupholders that require you to dislocate your shoulders to use while driving. There's a distinct lack of space for storing your mobile phone, sunglasses and other clutter, but that’s the price you pay for driving a back-to-basics sports car.
Its 130-litre boot means you'll have to pack lightly for a weekend away but you might be surprised how many squishy things you can fit in there and still close the bootlid. Not that we'd recommend that approach with the weekly shop — things could soon get messy.
It's not just space that the Mazda MX-5 is short of — it now has no direct rivals on sale in the affordable two-seater roadster market. The pricier Audi TT Roadster is no more and while the BMW Z4 is still available, it too costs significantly more.
Developed and built alongside the MX-5 were the Fiat 124 Spider and it's faster Abarth 124 Spider twin, both of which were taken off sale in 2019. Today's remaining alternatives are the MINI Cooper Convertible, which is a four-seater (just) and not a sports car, while the MG Cyberster is both fully electric and a lot dearer than the Mazda's sub-£29,000 starting price.
MX-5 equipment levels are comprehensive, with even entry-level Prime-Line models featuring LED head and tail lights, cruise control and wireless Apple CarPlay. Inside the Mazda is well-finished, if dated and using hard plastics for the majority of its surfaces. Its 8.8-inch multimedia display looks sharp and is easy to use with a rotary controller between the seats.
An exceptional reliability record and a huge support network mean the Mazda MX-5 can also be a brilliant used purchase. Just make sure you fit first.
Reviews for Mazda MX-5's top 3 rivals
.jpg?width=240&height=160&rmode=crop)
Mazda MX-5 handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.5i 131 RF to 2.0i 184 RF
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 33–57 mpg
Mazda MX-5 2025: Handling and ride quality
Designed to deliver pure driving pleasure and, wow, does the Mazda MX-5 deliver? That's a rhetorical question, but if you're in any doubt then, yes. Yes it does. With word counts to be conscious of, we need to be concise despite how easy it is to wax lyrical about the dinky Mazda.
Starting with the MX-5's wonderful steering, it's a rarefied experience these days to be in command of a wheel that's bristling with feedback and feel, without it ever feeling overwrought or tiresome. Whichever engine you choose, the little roadster feels eager, responding eager to direction changes, the front wheels accurately tracing the arc of bends, although there's a greater weight to the heaviness of the 2.0-litre models, but not to such a degree that it spoils it.
Then there’s the Mazda's agility and balance — amplified by the snugness of its interior, it feels like you're at one with it, like a tight-fitting glove. opening the fun floodgates when exploring wending, undulating B-roads. Because your hips aren't too far away from where its driven rear wheels are, you're immediately more in tune with its movements through corners, able to react with a fraction more immediacy with the steering, brakes and accelerator.
Talking of the pedals, the weight of their action is so deliciously judged and although they're set towards the right side of the driver's footwell, there's ample room for bigger-footed drivers to heel-and-toe should they feel so inclined.
Accompanying the pedal action, your left hand will be kept occupied with the MX-5's delightful six-speed manual gearbox. While such transmissions are rapidly falling out of favour, we can't help but wonder if they might have remained more popular if they were all as well-engineered as the Mazda. Short, precise throw action with a definite, crisply engineered sensation as the lever's snicked this way and that. So much more involving than paddles mounted on a steering column.
As fabulous as the MX-5 is to drive, while we stand by the five stars we've rated it as a driving experience, there is a little room for improvement, notably on the suspension front. It's necessarily firm but not to the degree most hot hatchbacks are, yet over broken, subsiding ribbons of road a greater degree of compliance would be welcome.
For as much as we love the lightness and purity of the 1.5-litre versions, the 2.0-litre is the more thrilling, not least the models fitted with a limited-slip differential. You can plant your right foot with confidence as you spirit away from bends, giving the MX-5 a proper race car feel.
Mazda MX-5 2025: Engines
Top choice of the Mazda MX-5's engineering team is the 1.5-litre engine choice and it's not difficult to see why. It thrives on revs which is no hardship when you’re using one of the sweetest manual gearboxes fitted to any car full stop.
It’s with this engine that the MX-5 feels the most agile and playfu, so there’s no reason to feel short-changed. by its 132PS and 152Nm power and torque outputs and besides, a 0-62mph time of 8.3 seconds is far from slow. Somewhat academically, the 1.5-litre's top speed is 127mph.
That said, the 2.0-litre alternative is brilliant and that bit easier to live with thanks to its richer seams of both power and torque — 184PS and 205Nm for the record. It can reach a top speed of 136mph but more impressive than that and its 6.5-second 0-62mph time is the way it delivers its urgency is delivered. Spinning all the way up to 7500rpm with the most sonrous soundtrack, the 2.0-litre MX-5 is a driver’s delight, especially when the roof's down and it can be heard filter-free.
Mazda MX-5 2025: Safety
The Mazda MX-5 was awarded a credible four-star safety rating when it was crash-tested by Euro NCAP in 2015. It’s rare for a car of this type to be subjected to a crash test, so we applaud Mazda for taking this step.
It's also prudent to point out that while still listed as a four-star car by Euro NCAP, the MX-5's page on its website also confirms the result has expired — in other words, the tests have become more rigourous since its test and therefore a repeat with a current model could produce a different result.
Standard safety kit for today's MX-5 includes a driver attention alert, hill-launch assist, traffic sign recognition, lane-keep assist and lane-departure warning plus autonomous emergency braking.
Mazda MX-5 2025: Towing
As the Mazda MX-5 has not been homologated for towing, park any ideas you may have about hauling along anything behind you.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5i 131 | 47 mpg | 8.3 s | 139 g/km |
| 1.5i 131 RF | 46 mpg | - | 142 g/km |
| 1.5i 132 | 45 mpg | 8.3 s | 138–143 g/km |
| 1.5i 132 RF | 46 mpg | 8.7 s | 138–143 g/km |
| 2.0i 132 | - | - | 142 g/km |
| 2.0i 160 | 41 mpg | 7.3 s | 161 g/km |
| 2.0i 160 Automatic RF | 39 mpg | - | 167 g/km |
| 2.0i 160 RF | 41 mpg | 7.4 s | 161 g/km |
| 2.0i 184 | 41 mpg | 6.5–8.3 s | 142–156 g/km |
| 2.0i 184 RF | 39–41 mpg | 6.8–7.9 s | 156–157 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Mazda MX-5
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
103%
Real MPG
33–57 mpg
MPGs submitted
262
Mazda MX-5 interior
- Boot space is 127–130 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of four stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3915 mm |
| Width | 1735–1918 mm |
| Height | 1225–1236 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2310 mm |
Mazda MX-5 2025: Practicality
While it may seem a tad unfair to criticise the Mazda MX-5 for its limited practicality — after all, it's hardly going to be the car of choice for a flat-pack furniture shopping frenzy at Ikea — but it’s important to point out its limitations.
Take the boot, which offers a mere 130 litres of luggage capacity beneath a lid that sounds rather tinny when slammed shut. That's just about enough for a long weekend providing everything's in a squishy bag, but anything more and your passenger will be making their own way to your desitination.
There's also a shortage of spaces to put things in the MX-5's passenger space. Without door pockets or a glovebox, you’re forced into using the lockable cubby behind the seats for items such as your phone and glasses case, while within the centre console is a shallow lidded well. You won't get much in their anyway, but don't be tempted to sit anything valuable in there.
Also between the seats are two removable cupholders that look like the afterthoughts they are. If you are driving without a passenger, good luck reaching your coffee while driving and not causing yourself an injury.
Space for the driver and passenger is also snug at best and could prove impossible to accommodate those over six-feet tall. Roof up, their heads will brush against it, while the footwells are very tight. The driver's feet are pushed to the right, although with enough space not to accidentally press two pedals simutaneously.
Another irksome discovery for taller drivers will be how tricky it is to get in and out with much decorum when the roof's up. That, and the headroom issue, can be remedied no end by folding the roof back and enjoyng the elements — after all, why bother buying a convertible if you plan to keep its lid firmly shut the vast majority of the time.
Operating the MX-5's hood is a manual affair that can be opened and closed single-handedly from the driver's seat. To open, unclip the buckle above the rear-view mirror and push it back until it clicks shut. To close, release the clip between the seats, pull it back over and lock down that central clamp.
What appears to be a neat trick soon proves not to be, though. If you left the car unlocked on your drive with the roof down but spot it's raining and need to dash out and shut it, you can do so without having the key on you. Except you need the key to turn the MX-5's ingnition on because as the hood begins to move, the windows in the doors automatically drop to half-way down, but don't return to their closed positions once its fully erected. To sort that you'll need to turn the car on, raise the windows conventionally and job done.
Does any of this matter? We suspect not, but limited practicality is one of the reasons why the Mazda MX-5 is a popular second car, rarely a person's only one.
Mazda MX-5 2025: Quality and finish
Even taking its affordable price out of the equation, the quality of the Mazda MX-5's assembly is superb, with no squeaks or rattles evident in the much-enjoyed test examples we've sampled, either roof up or down.
What makes the MX-5 feel its age are the plastic interior surfaces which are universally hard and not especially pleasant from a tactile perspective. Visually, the effect works well, including the body-coloured upper sections of the door interiors, scalloped out to meet the eyeball airvents, but tap them with your fingers and they're underwhelming.
Much better are the plush seat upholstery choices and the delightful, leather-wrapped steering wheel, with a perfectly judge diamater and rim thickness. That sense of rightness continues with the gearchange, the Mazda being blessed with a stubby little lever that amplifies the pleasure of swapping between ratios.
Mazda MX-5 2025: Infotainment
With the exception of earlier models, all Mazda MX-5s now come come with an 8.8-inch multimedia touchscreen that sits neatly atop the dashboard, within reach of the driver.
This upgraded display on newer versions has excellent resolution for sharp graphics, strong colours and virtually no lag. It’s a great system that can also be operated using a rotary controller between the seats for extra ease while driving.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto feature, plus because this is an older design there's still a large physical button and switch count, including rotary dials for the climate control system.
All Mazda MX-5s except the base Prime-Line trim have a Bose nine-speaker audio system, including a pair in each of the seats.
Mazda MX-5 value for money
Mazda MX-5 2025: Prices
Starting point for the Mazda MX-5 range of fabric-roofed drop-tops is the Prime-Line model with the 1.5-litre engine costing £28,585, while an upgrade to the Exclusive-Line version with the same engine adds another £2000 to the bill.
You can also have the Exclusive-Line with the punchier 2.0-litre engine for £33,415 with the same engine in flagship MX-5 Homura guise weighin in at £35,815.
So what of the other choices we mentioned that aren't really direct rivals for one reason or another?
BMW's Z4 costs upwards of £46,600, while the MINI Cooper Convertible is far closer in price if not ethos at £28,715 and more.
What of the electric MG Cyberster? It's not a modern-day replacement for the MX-5's old foe, the MG TF, as its £55,245 price tag immediately confirms.
Mazda MX-5 2025: Running Costs
Running a Mazda MX-5 shouldn't prove to be ruinously expensive by any stretch of the imagination, although in fuel efficiency terms the gap between the two engines isn't significantly in the smaller one's favour.
Under WLTP Combined cycle conditions, the 1.5-litre MX-5 averages 45.6mpg with the punchier 2.0-litre models only a little lower at 41.5mpg.
All MX-5s are currently well under the £40,000 threshold for incurring extra fees associated with the Expensive Car Supplement — the so-called luxury car tax.
Few company car drivers will consider an MX-5 due to its high Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax bandings — 1.5-litre examples slot into the 34% band, the 2.0-litres being 2% higher still.
Predictably, 1.5-litre versions are the cheapest to insure, with both versions slotting into group 27E, the 2.0-litre alternatives in 33A.
Satisfaction Index
What is your car like to live with?
We need your help with our latest Satisfaction Index, so that we can help others make a smarter car buying decision. What's it like to live with your car? Love it? Loath it? We want to know. Let us know about your car - it will only take a few minutes and you could be helping thousands of others.
Help us with the Honest John Satisfaction Index nowMazda MX-5 models and specs
There are currently three levels of specification available for the Mazda MX-5 following the brand's contemporary hierarchy used across its range of Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura.
Standard features found on the Mazda MX-5 Prime-Line include:
- 16-inch Black alloy wheels
- Black premium cloth soft-top
- LED daytime-running, head and tail lights
- Remote control central locking
- Keyless starting/stopping
- Electrically operated windows with one-touch auto-down
- Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors
- Piano Black door mirror housings
- Automatic windscreen wipers
- Rear parking sensors
- Premium black cloth and suede effect upholstery with silver stitching
- Heated seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear lever and handbrake
- 8.8-inch multimedia touchscreen with rotary controller
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
- Integral navigation system
- Six-speaker audio system
- USB-C sockets (x2)
- Climate control
- Cruise control
Upgrading to the Mazda MX-5 Exclusive-Line adds:
- 16-inch Bright [silver] alloy wheels — 1.5-litre 132PS model
- 17-inch Black diamond-cut alloy wheels — 2.0-litre 184PS model
- Sports suspension with Bilstein dampers — 2.0-litre 184PS model
- Adaptive LED headlights
- Keyless entry/exit
- Body-coloured door mirror housings
- Reversing camera — 2.0-litre 184PS model
- Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential — 2.0-litre 184PS model
- Front strut brace — 2.0-litre 184PS model
- Perforated black leather upholstery with silver stitching
- Faux leather dashboard and centre console trim
- Bose premium nine-speaker audio system
- Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror
- Black plastic door sill scuff plates with stainless steel inserts
- Dynamic Stability Control with Track Mode
At the top of the range is the Mazda MX-5 Homura which additionally features:
- 17-inch Gun Metallic BBS alloy wheels
- Red-painted brake calipers
- Piano Black door mirror housings
- Recaro sports seats
- Leather and Alcantara faux suede upholstery
- Stainless steel door sill scuff plates with MX-5 logo
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3915 mm |
| Width | 1735–1918 mm |
| Height | 1225–1236 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2310 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1050–1194 kg |
| Boot Space | 127–130 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 6000 miles |
| Servicing | 12500 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £27,690–£31,710 |
| Insurance Groups | 24–30 |
| Road Tax Bands | E–H |
| Official MPG | 39.2–47.1 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 4 |
Currently on sale
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Exclusive-Line 132 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | £27,815 | - | - |
| Exclusive-Line 184 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | £31,700 | - | - |
| Homura 184 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | £31,710 | - | - |
| Kizuna 132 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | £29,955 | - | - |
| Prime-Line 132 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | £27,690 | - | - |
On sale until January 2023
| Convertible | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Sav-G 2.0 184ps GT Sport Tech Auto 2dr | - | - | 7.9 s |
| Skyactiv-G 1.5 132ps SE-L Nav+ 2dr | - | - | 8.7 s |
| Skyactiv-G 1.5 132ps Sport 2dr | - | - | 8.7 s |
| Skyactiv-G 2.0 184ps GT Sport Tech 2dr | - | - | 6.8 s |
| Skyactiv-G 2.0 184ps Sport Tech 2dr | - | - | 6.8 s |
| Skyactiv-G 2.0 184ps Sport Tech Auto 2dr | - | - | 7.9 s |
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 100th Anniversary Edition 184 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | - | - | 6.5 s |
| R-Sport SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | - | - | 8.3 s |
| Sav-G 1.5 132ps SE-L 2dr | - | - | 8.3 s |
| Sav-G 1.5 132ps Sport 2dr | - | - | 8.3 s |
| Sav-G 2.0 184 GT Sport Tech 2dr | - | - | 6.5 s |
| Sav-G 2.0 184ps Sport Tech 2dr | - | - | 6.5 s |
| Sport Venture SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop 2dr | - | - | 8.3 s |
On sale until July 2020
| Convertible | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.5 132ps SE-L Nav+ 2dr | £22,595 | 46.3 mpg | 8.7 s |
| 1.5 132ps Sport Nav+ 2dr | £25,095 | 46.3 mpg | 8.7 s |
| 2.0 184ps 30TH Anniversary Edition 2dr | £29,895 | - | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 184ps GT Sport Nav+ 2dr | £27,795 | 40.9 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 184ps GT Sport Nav+ Auto 2dr | £29,195 | 39.2 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 2.0 184ps SE-L Nav+ 2dr | £24,095 | 40.9 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 184ps Sport Nav+ 2dr | £26,595 | 40.9 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 2.0 184ps Sport Nav+ Auto 2dr | £27,995 | 39.2 mpg | 7.9 s |
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 184ps 30TH Anniversary Edition 2dr | £28,095 | - | 6.5 s |
| Convertible 1.5 132ps SE+ 2dr | £18,455 | 44.8 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 1.5 132ps SE-L Nav+ 2dr | £20,795 | 44.8 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 1.5 132ps Sport Nav+ 2dr | £23,295 | 44.8 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 184ps GT Sport Nav+ 2dr | £25,795 | 40.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
| Convertible 2.0 184ps SE-L Nav+ 2dr | £22,295 | 40.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
| Convertible 2.0 184ps Sport Nav+ 2dr | £24,795 | 40.9 mpg | 6.5 s |
On sale until November 2018
| Convertible | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.5 131ps SE L Nav 2dr | £22,495 | 46.3 mpg | - |
| 1.5 131ps Sport Nav 2dr | £24,895 | 46.3 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps Launch Edition 2dr | £29,510 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps SE L Nav 2dr | £23,795 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps Sport Black 2dr | £25,695 | 40.9 mpg | 7.4 s |
| 2.0 160ps Sport Nav 2dr | £26,195 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps Sport Nav Auto 2dr | £27,595 | 39.2 mpg | - |
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps Arctic Limited Edition 2dr | £21,295 | 47.1 mpg | - |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps Icon 2dr | £21,065 | 47.1 mpg | - |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps SE 2dr | £18,995 | 47.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps SE L Nav 2dr | £20,695 | 47.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps Sport 2dr | £22,195 | 47.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps Sport Nav 2dr | £23,095 | 47.1 mpg | 8.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 160ps SE L 2dr | £20,500 | 40.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 160ps SE L Nav 2dr | £21,995 | 40.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 160ps Sport 2dr | £23,100 | 40.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 160ps Sport Nav 2dr | £24,395 | 40.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 160ps Sport Recaro 2dr | £24,300 | 40.9 mpg | 7.3 s |
| Convertible 2.0 160ps Z Sport 2dr | £25,610 | 40.9 mpg | - |
On sale until April 2017
| Convertible | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.5 131ps SE L Nav 2dr | £22,240 | 46.3 mpg | - |
| 1.5 131ps Sport Nav 2dr | £24,840 | 46.3 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps Launch Edition 2dr | £28,980 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps SE L Nav 2dr | £23,080 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps Sport Nav 2dr | £25,680 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 160ps Sport Nav Auto 2dr | £27,095 | 39.2 mpg | - |
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps Arctic Limited Edition 2dr | £21,225 | 47.1 mpg | - |
| Convertible 1.5 131ps Icon 2dr | £20,995 | 47.1 mpg | - |
On sale until October 2015
| Convertible | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.5i 131 SE | £18,495 | - | - |
| 1.5i 131 SE-L | £19,245 | - | - |
Model History
- April 2014: Mazda MX-5 UK prices and specifications announced
- September 2014: New Mazda MX-5 revealed
- November 2015: Mazda MX-5 Limited Edition launched
- December 2016: Mazda introduces MX-5 Arctic
- December 2017: Mazda MX-5 Z-Sport special edition launched
- June 2018: Mazda MX-5 revised
- July 2018: Mazda MX-5 gets more powerful engine
- February 2019: Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary Edition announced
- July 2019
- March 2020: Mazda MX-5 range updated including new flagship GT Sport Tech trim
- April 2020: Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition launched
- August 2020: Mazda MX-5 100th Anniversary Special Edition priced from £29,995
- April 2021: Mazda MX-5 Sport Venture announced
- December 2021: Updated Mazda MX-5 priced from £24,755
- October 2022: Mazda MX-5 range updated for 2023
- February 2024: Mazda MX-5 2024 UK prices and specification announced
April 2014
Mazda MX-5 UK prices and specifications announced
From £18,495 Offered with a choice of two SKYACTIV-G petrol engines it comes with generous standard equipment and new levels of safety technology.
Choice of nine models across five trim levels. Maintaining the driver-focused ethos that has made the Mazda MX-5 the best-selling two-seater sports car of all time, the latest MX-5 was conceived and developed under the concept of "innovate in order to preserve".
The 2015 Mazda MX-5 is shorter, lower and wider than the outgoing car, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet. These dynamic proportions combined with Mazda's KODO: Soul of Motion design philosophy ensure that the all-new Mazda MX-5's styling reflects its focus on driving pleasure in an unmistakably contemporary and dynamic way.
Featuring Mazda's award-winning SKYACTIV technology, the all-new MX-5's ultra-efficient lightweight petrol engines deliver new levels of performance and economy. Across the range the all-new Mazda MX-5 features alloy wheels, LED headlights, a leather steering wheel, plus a lightweight and sleek fabric hood. SE-L models add LED daytime running lights, climate control air-conditioning, DAB radio, Bluetooth and cruise control, plus Mazda's MZD-Connect connectivity and infotainment system with 7-inch Colour touch-screen display and Multimedia Commander.
SE-L models with the 2.0-litre 160PS engine are distinguished by 17-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors, and benefit from a strut tower bar and limited slip differential.
Step up to Sport trim and both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre cars feature rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry, Premium Bose Surround-Sound and heated leather seats.
With the 1.5-litre engine, Sport trim MX-5 come with 16-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors. Sport models with the 2.0-litre 160ps engine benefit from a dynamic set-up that includes Sports suspension featuring Bilstein dampers, a limited slip differential and strut tower bar, while visually, they are marked out by their 17-inch Bright alloy wheels and body coloured mirrors.
Versions of the all-new Mazda MX-5 fitted with Mazda's integrated navigation system come with three-years of free European map upgrades, while the range topping 2.0-litre Sport Nav is available with the optional £350 Safety Pack, which includes High Beam Control and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
|
Price |
VAT |
'On the Road' Retail |
CO 2 (g/km) |
RFL Band 1) |
% P11D Value |
Monthly BIK 20% / 40% |
|
|
Mazda MX-5 1.5i SE |
£15,258.33 |
£3,051.67 |
£18,495 |
139 |
E |
22 |
£67 / £134 |
|
Mazda MX-5 1.5i SE-L |
£15,883.33 |
£3,176.67 |
£19,245 |
139 |
E |
22 |
£70 / £140 |
|
Mazda MX-5 1.5i SE-L Nav |
£16,383.33 |
£3,276.67 |
£19,845 |
139 |
E |
22 |
£72 / £144 |
|
Mazda MX-5 1.5i Sport |
£18,050.00 |
£3,610.00 |
£21,845 |
139 |
E |
22 |
£79 / £159 |
|
Mazda MX-5 1.5i Sport Nav |
£18,550.00 |
£3,710.00 |
£22,445 |
139 |
E |
22 |
£82 / £163 |
|
Mazda MX-5 2.0i SE-L |
£16,550.00 |
£3,310.00 |
£20,095 |
161 |
G |
27 |
£89 / £179 |
|
Mazda MX-5 2.0i SE-L Nav |
£17,050.00 |
£3,410.00 |
£20,695 |
161 |
G |
27 |
£92 / £184 |
|
Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport |
£18,716.67 |
£3,743.33 |
£22,695 |
161 |
G |
27 |
£101 / £202 |
|
Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Nav |
£19,216.67 |
£3,843.33 |
£23,295 |
161 |
G |
27 |
£104 / £208 |
|
Price |
VAT |
Recommended Retail Price |
|||||
|
Options |
|||||||
|
Mica/Metallic/Pearlescent Paint |
£450.00 |
£90.00 |
£540 |
||||
|
Soul Red Metallic Paint |
£550.00 |
£110.00 |
£660 |
||||
|
Tan leather trim upgrade * |
£166.67 |
£33.33 |
£200 |
||||
|
Safety Pack (Includes: High beam Control and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert) ** |
£291.67 |
£58.33 |
£350 |
||||
* Optional on Sport Nav models only
** Optional on 2.0 Sport Nav models only
September 2014
New Mazda MX-5 revealed
Weighing 100kg less than the outgoing model and with the lowest-ever centre of gravity, the latest incarnation of Mazda's iconic roadster enhances the Jinba Ittai "rider-and-horse-as one" responsiveness and agility that has always made the MX-5 the essence of driving fun.
The weight reduction also puts the new Mazda MX-5 at a level comparable to the original model, which revived and revolutionised the market for affordable lightweight sports cars back in 1989. More than 947,000 MX-5s have been produced over the past 25 years, and the MX-5 holds the Guinness World Record as the all-time bestselling two-seater sports car.
November 2015
Mazda MX-5 Limited Edition launched
Based on the 2.0-litre 160PS Sport Nav, the Sport Recaro retains the finely balanced performance and handling of the standard car, but limited to just 600 cars, it benefits from added exclusivity and sporty styling enhancements inside and out.
Created with the discerning sports car fan in mind, the Sport Recaro builds on these sharp looks with a Brilliant Black Sports Aero kit that includes a rear spoiler, plus front, side and rear skirts. Piano Black door mirrors and 17-inch Diamond Cut alloy wheels with an engraved MX-5 logo complete the stand out exterior appearance.
Inside, the classy MX-5 cabin gains an Alcantara dashboard panel, alloy pedals and unique floor mats. Complementing the premium feel of the cabin, the standard Recaro seats feature Alcantara upholstery on the seat cushion and seat back, while red seat piping compliments the red stitching found on the dash, handbrake and gear lever.
Based on the generous specification of the 2.0-litre Sport Nav, the all-new Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro features LED headlights, a leather steering wheel, climate control air-conditioning, DAB radio, Integrated Bluetooth, integrated navigation system with 3-years free European map updates, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry, a premium Bosesound system and cruise control, plus Mazda’s MZD-Connect connectivity and infotainment system with 7-inch Colour touch-screen display and Multimedia Commander.
December 2016
Mazda introduces MX-5 Arctic
On sale from February, the new Mazda MX-5 Arctic aims to brighten winter days with its free-of-charge Blue Reflex Metallic paint and contrasting bright silver design cues.
Based on the 1.5-litre 131ps SE-L Nav, the MX-5 Arctic’s striking silver details contrast attractively against the icy blue paint. With 16-inch Silver alloy wheels, a silver windscreen surround, silver wing mirrors and silver headrest hoops the Arctic has the distinctive look you’d expect of an MX-5 special edition and continues the trend of offering sports car customers a striking car at an affordable price.
Inside, the stand-out feel continues with silver cup holder rings and chrome scuff plates, while the upgraded equipment tally includes heated leather seats, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and rear parking sensors. Limited to just 400 cars this UK exclusive special edition features a numbered limited edition badge on the dashboard.
The second MX-5 to wear the Arctic badge, the latest car revisits a name last used on the second-generation MX-5 in 2005. Available with 1.6i and 1.8i engines the original MX-5 Arctic was offered in a choice of Sunlight silver, Titanium grey or Razor Blue paint and the standard equipment tally included air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, heated dark blue leather seats, blue door inserts and chrome detailing on the window mountings.
December 2017
Mazda MX-5 Z-Sport special edition launched
On sale from the 1st March, this exclusive model gets deep cherry red fabric hood, 17-inch black BBS wheels and Machine Grey Metallic paint.
Inside, the stand-out feel continues with Sand Leather seats, plus Z-Sport floor mats and scuff plates. While to further highlight its uniqueness, each car comes with an individually numbered Z-Sport plaque on the dash. Exclusive to the UK and limited to just 300 cars, thanks to being based on the 2.0-litre 160ps Sport Nav, the £25,595 Z-Sport features a limited slip differential, Bilstein dampers and a strut brace to ensure it has the dynamic excellence to match its sporty exterior looks.
June 2018
Mazda MX-5 revised
Both soft-top and RF feature improvements in dynamic performance, an upgrade to Mazda's i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies, and refinements to design and packaging.
These include updated 1.5 and 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engines with improved combustion and greater torque comply with new WLTP/RDE test cycle and meet Euro 6d Temp emission regulations. Both powertrains benefit from refined acceleration control to minimise lag between throttle applications and vehicle response.
The SKYACTIV-G 2.0 engine is now higher-revving and acoustically tuned, with maximum engine speed raised from 6800 to 7500rpm, maximum horsepower increased from 160 to 184PS @ 7000rpm, and maximum torque from 200 to 205Nm @ 4000rpm.
Five new i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies 2 : Advanced Smart City Brake Support which detects vehicles and pedestrians ahead and helps avoid collisions, and Smart City Brake Support (Reverse) which detects vehicles and obstacles behind, as well as Driver Attention Alert, a Traffic Sign Recognition System and a Rear View Camera.
The look of the car is enhanced by a darker paint finish for both 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels, and the availability of a new brown canopy colour for soft-top models.
July 2018
Mazda MX-5 gets more powerful engine
Substantially redesigned with lighter pistons and con-rod, the 2.0-litre engine also features revisions to the camshafts and exhaust valves, fuel injectors, throttle valve and air intake.
The end result is an increase from 160PS to 184PS and a heightened redline, which rises from 6800 to 7500rpm. In addition with higher fuel pressure and more efficient combustion, there’s an increase in torque across the rev range, while peak torque rises by 5Nm.
As a result on the convertible 0-62mph performance improves by 0.8 of a second to 6.5seconds, while manual and automatic RF models see a 0.6 and 0.5 second increase, respectively, while tuning of the main silencer delivers a cleaner more powerful engine note.
Even better, this enhanced performance hasn’t come at the cost of efficiency, as fully homologated to the WLTP/RDE test cycle, both the 2019 MX-5s engines achieve Euro 6d Temp emission regulation compliance, while the introduction of Mazda’s i-ELOOP and i-stop kinetic recovery and stop-start technology on 2.0-litre models means all 184PS cars have a lower CO2 output than the outgoing 160PS car.
The upgraded 184PS 2.0-litre engine will initially be offered exclusively in the new range-topping GT Sport Nav+ trim in both the RF and convertible, while SE-L Nav+ and Sport Nav+ 184PS models will go on sale later in the Autumn.
The 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G engine benefits from improved combustion and reduced internal friction to see a slight power increase to 132PS and a moderate torque improvement to 152Nm while at the same time retaining its superb efficiency and fuel economy. 2019 MX-5’s fitted with the smaller engine go on sale on the 1 st September.
Across all models in the range, the 2019 MX-5 now features telescopic steering adjustment and improved seat sliding operation to further enhance driver comfort and improve the famous Jinba Ittai ‘car-and-driver as one’ ethos that sits at the heart of the MX-5 experience.
February 2019
Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary Edition announced
3000 sold worldwide and 600 brought to the UK - 400 convertibles and 200 RF, all based on the 2.0-litre MX-5. Finished in Racing Orange paint with bespoke wheels and Brembo brakes. RF priced at £29,895 and convertible £28,095.
July 2019
Mazda MX-5 30th anniversary Edition announced Special vivid colour developed called Racing Orange. Other features include forged aluminium wheels by RAYS Co., Ltd. in dark gunmetal paint with a design based on the wheels fitted to Global MX-5 Cup race cars, orange callipers (Brembo at the front, NISSIN at the rear), Bilstein dampers and RECARO seats with contrasting orange stitching and piping. Mazda Connect system isupports Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM*. Through a simple USB connection, customers can easily use applications from their iPhone® or smartphone on the car’s system via Mazda Connect’s Human-Machine Interface (HMI).
1,998cc DOHC 16v Skyactiv G engine developing 184PS at 7,000rpm and 205Nm torque at 4,500rpm. 6-speed manual transmission.
March 2020
Mazda MX-5 range updated including new flagship GT Sport Tech trim
The updated 2020 Mazda MX-5 is now available to order. Features a 10-model line-up - four Convertibles and six RFs - the 132ps 1.5-litre Convertible is offered in SE-L and Sport trim, while the 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is matched to Sport Tech and the new range-topping GT Sport Tech trim. As with the Convertible, SE-L and Sport trim RF’s are powered by the 1.5-litre engine, while Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech come with the more powerful 2.0-litre engine. In addition, 2.0-litre RFs in both trim levels come with the option to choose an automatic gearbox.
New for the 2020 Mazda MX-5, the GT Sport Tech flagship model is marked out by 17-inch BBS alloy wheels and Burgundy Nappa leather seats, while across the whole range the MX-5 is available with Polymetal Grey Metallic paint for the first time. The updated version of Mazda’s sports car also benefits from extra standard safety equipment: from Sport models and above, the MX-5 features Front Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning System, Rear Smart City Brake Support, Traffic Sign Recognition and Driver Attention Alert. While Blind Spot Monitoring System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive LED headlights and a reversing camera are standard on Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech models.
Across all models in the range, the 2020 MX-5 features telescopic steering adjustment.
April 2020
Mazda MX-5 R-Sport Special Edition launched
Limited to 150 examples, the R-Sport is based on the 1.5-litre MX-5 Sport. It adds 16-inch RAYS wheels, piano black mirrors and a grey fabric hood. Offered exclusively with Polymetal Grey paint and burgundy Nappa leather seats.
August 2020
Mazda MX-5 100th Anniversary Special Edition priced from £29,995
Celebrates Mazda's centenary with Snowflake White paint and burgundy interior. Limited to 100 examples in the UK. Powered by 2.0-litre petrol engine.
April 2021
Mazda MX-5 Sport Venture announced
Based on the 1.5-litre 132ps Sport Convertible, the £27,615 Sport Venture features Deep Crystal Blue Mica paint matched to a grey fabric hood and silver door mirror trims. Drop the roof and the Sport Venture’s Light Stone Nappa leather and silver roll hoop trims further complement the Deep Crystal Blue paint, as do the 16-inch bright alloy wheels. The MX-5 Sport Venture is limited to 160 examples and arrives in showrooms this month.
December 2021
Updated Mazda MX-5 priced from £24,755
The 2022 Mazda MX-5 is available to order now with both the Convertible and RF Retractable Fastback models ready for delivery from February 2022. Featuring a 10-model line-up - four Convertibles and six RFs - the 132ps 1.5-litre Convertible is offered in SE-L and Sport trim, while the 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine is matched to Sport Tech and the range-topping GT Sport Tech trim. As with the Convertible, SE-L and Sport trim RF’s are powered by the 1.5-litre engine, while Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech come with the more powerful 2.0-litre engine. In addition, 2.0-litre RFs in both trim levels come with the option to choose an automatic gearbox.
Updates for the 2022 Mazda MX-5 include the addition the new Platinum Quartz Metallic paint colour for the first time, while all models are now fitted with Kinematic Posture Control (KPC). Mazda’s KPC system is designed to increase stability during cornering without impacting the purity of the MX-5’s handling and driver engagement. The KPC system applies a very small amount of brake force to the inner/unloaded rear wheel during cornering, the resulting brake force pulls the body down, suppressing body roll to provide more reassuring cornering so subtly that the MX-5’s engaging handling remains unpolluted.
As you’d expect for a car so famed for its dynamic abilities, outside of the addition of KPC, the 2022 Mazda MX-5 retains the same award-winning mechanical set up as before. Introduced in September 2018, the updated 184ps version of the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine features lighter pistons and con-rod, plus upgraded camshafts, exhaust valves, fuel injectors, throttle valve and air intake, all of which increase performance over the 160ps version that featured in the fourth-generation MX-5 at launch in 2015. As a result, the engine has a redline of 7,500rpm. In addition with higher fuel pressure and more efficient combustion than the 160ps version, there’s an increase in torque across the rev range, while peak torque rises by 5Nm.
Compared to the 160ps version, the Convertible’s 0-62mph performance improved by 0.8 of a second to 6.5seconds, while manual and automatic RF models are 0.6 and 0.5 seconds faster. In addition, the tuned main silencer delivers a more powerful engine note. As before 2.0-litre cars with the manual gearbox have a front strut brace, limited slip differential and Bilstein dampers.
October 2022
Mazda MX-5 range updated for 2023
Available to order now for delivery in March, the 2023 Mazda MX-5 continues the winning formula that has seen more than 24,000 fourth-generation MX-5s sold in the UK since its launch in 2015. The 10-model line-up features a new naming structure with Convertible models taking the Roadster name used elsewhere around the globe, while the line-up now features the newly named Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura trim levels.
With an unchanged engine line-up, both the Roadster and Retractable Fastback RF models come with a choice of 1.5-litre 132ps and 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engines. For the 2023 model year the 1.5-litre Roadster is available in Prime-Line and Exclusive-Line grade, replacing the SE-L and Sport models previously offered. The 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G Roadster is matched to Exclusive-Line and range-topping Homura grades – replacing the Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech model names.
As with the Roadster, the Prime-Line RF is powered by the 1.5-litre engine, while Exclusive-Line models can be specified with either the 1.5 or 2.0-litre engine and the range-topping Homura is exclusively matched to the 184ps 2.0-litre engine. In addition, 2.0-litre RFs in both trim levels come with the option to choose an automatic gearbox.
Updates for the 2023 Mazda MX-5 include the addition of the Zircon Sand paint colour to the MX-5 for the first time, while Homura manual models will feature red Brembo front brake callipers. With continued strong retail demand for the Mazda MX-5, the 2023 model year car is ready to order with full price and specification guides live at Mazda.co.uk.
The 2023 Mazda MX-5 retains the same award-winning mechanical set up as before. Introduced in September 2018, the updated 184ps version of the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine features lighter pistons and con-rod, plus upgraded camshafts, exhaust valves, fuel injectors, throttle valve and air intake, all of which increase performance over the 160ps version that featured in the fourth-generation MX-5 at launch in 2015. As a result, the engine has a redline of 7,500rpm. In addition with higher fuel pressure and more efficient combustion than the 160ps version, there’s an increase in torque across the rev range, while peak torque rises by 5Nm.
As before 2.0-litre cars with the manual gearbox have a front strut brace, limited slip differential and Bilstein dampers as standard while all MX-5 models feature Kinematic Posture Control (KPC). Mazda’s KPC system is designed to increase stability during cornering without impacting the purity of the MX-5’s handling and driver engagement. The KPC system applies a very small amount of brake force to the inner/unloaded rear wheel during cornering, the resulting brake force pulls the body down, suppressing body roll to provide more reassuring cornering so subtly that the MX-5’s engaging handling remains unpolluted.
February 2024
Mazda MX-5 2024 UK prices and specification announced
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 sees Mazda’s award-winning sports car receive an exterior design change for the first time since the launch of the current generation MX-5 in 2015.
The subtle changes include a new LED headlight design that now incorporates the daytime running lights, while the rear LED lights have also been redesigned. A new Aero Grey paint colour has been added to the MX-5 line-up as well.
The line up of 132PS 1.5 and 184PS 2.0 engines is unchanged, but 2.0 cars now get an Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential for even sharper handling.
On the inside, there’s a new larger central 8.8-inch touchscreen multimedia display and an updated instrument panel. Prices start at £28,000.
What to watch out for
Report of a problem with the hood: The inner lining separates from the exterior over the back window causing the inner to drop down and obscure the rear vision. Mazda knows about the issue and dealers fit two bulky metal clips but they put tension of the fabric and in time will wear through.
12-12-2016:Development on convertible hood problem. Owner told hood had to be replaced because it fouls the headrests when raised and lowered and the fabric is being worn through. He said he had already had to replace two hoods for this reason. Was told Mazda has had to redesign the frame. Owner wasn't happy and asdked for a deal on a replacement car. Mazda UK and the dealer declined this other than at list and book prices (£6,000 to change on a one year old car with 5,000 miles) all because of a design defect.
23-03-2017:Report of loss of power and fuel consumption issues of Mazda MX-5 1.5 prior to its first service.
08-01-2018:Report of handling problem with Mazda MX-5 2.0 SKYACTIV-G Start/Stop Sport Nav manual roadster, bought summer 2017, pre-reg, with 170 miles. The handling got progressively worse and owner took it back to the dealership for investigation a few days before six months since purchase at 3,300 miles. Investigation showed the rear differential had failed and it has been replaced under warranty.
03-09-2019:Report of noisy diff on 2016 Mazda MX-5 bought at 2 years old from Mazda dealer. Noise was not getting any worse so owner left it and did not report it until the car's next service. Took 4 visits to Mazda dealer before they would acknowledge any problem and by then the warranty had expired. Owner had complained to Mazda itself and Mazda agreed to pay 90%n of parts and labout leaving owner to fund £170.
11-09-2019:Report of failure of a/c on much loved 2016 Mazda MX-5 at 12,000 miles caused by corroded and leaking pipe. Out of warranty but Mazda met 90% of the cost. Later, water sloshing abour somewhere behind the dash. We thought possibly the a/c matrix which is behind the dash and a £600 job to remove and replace. Happily Mazda again agreed to pay 90% of the cost.
07-10-2019:Complaint that folding the soft top of a May 2019 Mazda MX-5 single-handedlyh resulted in a hole in the top where it rubs along the roll hoop when folding. Mazda dealer replaced it FoC but told owner he would not replace it FoC again. Needs to be folded more carefully than on previous model MX-5s.
