Mazda MX-5 (05 on) - Review

There are two engine choices available in the MX-5 - a 1.8-litre with 126bhp and a 2.0-litre unit with 160bhp. Neither is outrageously quick but both are nippy and rev freely - although you do have to work them quite hard to get meaningful performance. The 2.0-litre sprints from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds compared to 9.4 seconds for the 1.8-litre. The folding hard top on Roadster Coupe models adds 37kg of extra weight but this doesn't affect performance. The 1.8-litre is only available with a five-speed gearbox whereas the 2.0-litre engine comes with a five-speed or a six-speed 'box on the Sport model. Both transmissions are a delight to use thanks to a slick and positive action.

Mazda engineers have benchmarked the MX-5 against cars like the Porsche Boxster and this is evident on the move. It's agile, nimble and great fun - helped further by the fact the MX-5 is rear wheel drive. The new body is stiffer than before and this means that even with the roof down there's no wobble or vibration. It's composed on poor surfaces and makes a surprisingly good motorway cruiser. Some may argue that it's not as much fun as its predecessors but there's no denying it is hugely enjoyable and rewarding to drive.