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Motability

Mazda MX-5 Coupé Cabriolet 1.8i

What Car

For:
Everything you could ask for; engaging drive; low running costs

Against:
Exhaust note is rather insipid, and the rest of the car's a bit noisy



Performance

The MX-5 comes with either a 124bhp 1.8- or a 158bhp 2.0-litre engine. Both normally have five-speed gearboxes but the 2.0-litre is available with an optional close-ratio six-speed unit. Both engines are at their best when revved hard.

Ride & handling

The cabin remains free from shakes, so the ride is comfortable and controlled over broken surfaces, especially in the hard-top roadster coupe, which has slightly softer suspension settings. Both hard and soft-top models are impressively agile. The steering is precise and full of feel, while the rear-wheel-drive chassis offers fluid handling with bags of grip.

Refinement

With the roof down, the breeze is well isolated and the high-backed sports seats help prevent draughts around the driver and passenger. Roof up, the fabric does a decent job of blotting out wind noise. However, if you do much winter motorway work, it is worth paying the extra for the £1200 for the Roadster Coupe. Unfortunately, even with the roof down, the exhaust emits a dull drone.

Buying & owning

The MX-5 remains a sought-after product. As a result, it retains its value well. We expect it to hold on to at least half its new price over three years. Fuel economy is sensible and so are insurance groups for a sports car, so it's not expensive to run.

Quality & reliability

The number of 10-year-old MX-5s you see in pristine condition should answer any doubts over durability. They're simple and super-reliable if regularly serviced. We expect the new model to be an equally hardy performer. The cabin and hood are durable, and now that the soft-top locks flat when folded, it should be less prone to snagging. The Roadster Coupe's folding hard top is also very neat.

Safety & security

The MX-5 comes with twin front and side airbags. The 2.0-litre cars add electronic stability aids. An immobiliser and an alarm are fitted as standard, and the metal-roofed roadster-coupe will be more secure than the soft-top version.

Behind the wheel

With a lower-slung seat it's easy for taller drivers to get comfortable. The dash has a classy appearance but some of the plastics, although durable, are not of the highest quality. All the major controls are in a simple logical layout. There are few storage areas for any of your driving paraphernalia.

Space & practicality

The Roadster Coupe's roof is simple to take down - it's all done electrically. The boot is not very wide, but the omission of a spare wheel means you'll have little trouble fitting in a couple of overnight bags.

Equipment

The MX-5 is not exactly dripping with standard equipment but electric windows and mirrors and remote central locking are fitted to all versions. Trade up to the 2.0-litre model and you'll gain handling improvements and electronic driver aids. The top-of-the-range models gain leather upholstery, 17-inch alloy wheels and aluminium foot pedals. The Roadster Coupe has an iPod docking station.

Running Costs

Town mpg

28.5

Out of Town mpg

48.7

Average mpg

38.7

Tank Capacity (gallons)

11

CO2 Rating (g/km)

174

Insurance Group

11

Typical Insurance Quote

£489

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

42

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£389

Pence Per Mile

41.22

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£759

Servicing Intervals

12,500

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 12yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

CC

Number of Doors

2

Number of Seats

2

Engine (cc/type)

1798/4

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

125/6500

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Rear

Length (mm)

3995

Width (mm)

1720

Height (mm)

1255

Boot Space (min ltr)

150

Boot Space (max ltr)

150

Turning Circle (m)

10

Towing Weight(kg)

N/A

Kerb Weight (kg)

1155

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