The Mazda MX-5 has the remarkable distinction of both reviving the traditional affordable two-seater open roadster of the late 1980s, spawning a welcome plethora of competitors, and now being practically alone again in that shrinking sector of the new car market. Whatever else you think about the current state of the industry, that’s a bit of a shame.
For me, uncomfortable intimations of mortality (the car’s, not mine) are reason enough to renew my acquaintance with the model. It may be virtually the only small convertible sports car left on the market, but there’s a fine choice of the latest, mildly updated, MX-5 variations to choose from. Both petrol engine offerings are decidedly conservative, relying on natural aspiration and a high-revving nature to deliver the thrills, rather than a turbocharger – and there’s not even the mildest of mild hybrid options either.
