Mazda MX-5 Convertible Review 2023
The Mazda MX-5 Convertible is a compact two-seater sports car with a convertible roof. A timeless classic, the MX-5 Convertible is now in its fourth generation and features agile handling, a stylish exterior, and low running costs.
Rivals to the MX-5 Convertible include the Audi TT Roadster, Porsche 718 Boxster, Toyota GR Supra, and BMW Z4 Roadster.
Our Mazda MX-5 Convertible review covers:
- Classic MX-5 styling with fabric convertible roof
- Well-built and simple interior
- 130-litre boot
- Two petrol engines are available
- Four trim levels: Prime, Exclusive, Kizuna, and Homura
Pros:
- Good to drive
- Affordable to run
- Simple dashboard
Cons:
- Limited headroom with roof down
- Poor storage space
- Absent of premium materials
Mazda has kept true to its roots with the exterior of the MX-5 Convertible; it still looks pretty similar to the original that hit our roads in 1989. There's a minimalist front end, a convertible black fabric roof, and a rounded rear end.
The MX-5 Convertible is strictly a two-seater, so forget about anyone squeezing in the back. Up front, there's enough room to get comfortable, but both driver and passenger will feel a bit cramped, especially with the roof down. If you want more space, look at the larger Audi TT Roadster or BMW Z4 Roadster.
Boot space comes in at 130 litres for the MX-5 Convertible. Luggage space isn't affected by the roof's position, so you can pack it full whether you want hair in the wind or not. Even so, it isn't much, and the Porsche 718 Boxster and Toyota GR Supra offer at least 100 litres more.
The cabin of the MX-5 Convertible is smart; it features a good amount of soft-touch plastics and some nice-looking materials to take away from its cheaper feel. There's no doubt it's not as premium as the 718 Boxster, but it's good for its price.
On the dashboard, you'll find a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto, sat-nav, DAB radio, and Bluetooth. It's easy to use and can be controlled through shortcut buttons behind the steering wheel, meaning you don't have the distraction of moving your hands to use the screen.
Four trims are available for the MX-5 Convertible: Prime, Exclusive, Kizuna, and Homura.
Prime has 16-inch black alloy wheels, premium black cloth with silver stitching, heated seats, air conditioning, a six-way adjustable driver's seat/four-way adjustable passenger seat, a six-speaker sound system, remote control central locking, and cruise control with speed limiter.
Exclusive adds to this with 16-inch bright alloy wheels, perforated black leather heated seats, a nine-speaker surround sound system, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear parking sensors, front and rear smart city brake support, keyless entry, and automatic front wipers.
Kizuna has perforated light stone Nappa leather heated seats and adaptive headlights.
Homura has 17-inch metallic alloy wheels, front red Brembo brake callipers with rear callipers painted red, a limited slip differential, sports suspension, and stainless steel scuff plates with the MX-5 logo.
Two petrol units make up the engines in the MX-5. The entry-level unit is a 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G, and the range-topper is a 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G. Both are paired to a six-speed manual gearbox and come with rear-wheel drive.
The 1.5-litre unit has a power output of 130bhp, a top speed of 127 mph, and accelerates from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds. This seems fairly lacklustre for a sports car, especially when compared to the BMW Z4 Roadster.
If you're looking for more power, choosing the 2.0-litre variant is worth the money. It has a power output of 184bhp, a top speed of 136mph, and accelerates to 62mph in 6.5 seconds. The latter stat here is much more to our liking and offers much more punch.
It's worth keeping in mind that although the MX-5 Convertible falls short of its rivals in terms of power, it's very competitive in fuel efficiency, with the entry-level returning 44.8mpg and the range-topper having 40.9mpg.
On the road, the MX-5 is light and feels nimble, while its steering is accurate and gives you confidence when cornering at speed. It's great fun on a country road and also around town.
Despite how low it hangs, its suspension is relatively comfortable over most road surfaces. It tackles bumps in the road easily but does firm up as you upgrade to the larger 17-inch wheels.
Prices for the new Mazda MX-5 Convertible start from £27,690.00 OTR* or to lease from £335.54 per month.
Looking to get behind the wheel of the Mazda MX-5 Convertible? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit your every need.
Leasing may be cheaper than an outright purchase, thanks to a low initial deposit and fixed monthly rentals.
*' On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change; always check with your nearest retailer.
