Sporty Good Looks, Fun to drive
2015 reversing camera still optional, understated engine note
Mazda chose the stunning Sunshine Coast for the launch of the all-new Mazda MX-5 and the warm weather and beautiful scenery provided the perfect backdrop to test the stunning all-new Mazda MX-5.
The all-new fourth generation Mazda MX-5 was first seen in September 2014 when it was simultaneously launched globally in Japan, Spain and the USA.
Eleven months later and with a huge amount of build up the Mazda MX-5 has finally arrived in Australia.
Mazda MX-5 Overview
Cheaper, faster, lighter coupled with aggressive styling, the all-new 2015 Mazda MX-5 pays homage to 25 years of Mazda MX-5 history that has accumulated across the three generations that precede this model.
Standard feature across the range will include Bluetooth, power steering, air conditioning, Anti-Lock Braking System, Traction Control, Cruise Control and four SBS airbags.
The soft-top only Mazda MX-5 will be offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions choices across two model grades Roadster and Roadster GT.
Mazda MX-5 pricing and Line-up:
|
Model |
Manual |
Automatic |
|
1.5L MX-5 Roadster |
$31,990 |
$33,990 |
|
1.5L MX-5 Roadster GT |
$37,990 |
$39,990 |
|
2.0L MX-5 Roadster |
$34,990 |
$36,990 |
|
2.0L MX-5 Roadster GT |
$39,550 |
$41,550 |
For full break down of key features by model read our Mazda MX-5 Key Features article.
Mazda MX-5 Engine
As we predicated when we reviewed the outgoing model (Mazda MX-5 Review and Road Test) Mazda has delivered its new SkyActive technology via its 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre engines.
Entry in to the 2015 Mazda MX-5 range is the 96kW/150Nm 1.5 litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine with a choice of either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is a claimed 6.1L/100km (6MT) or 6.4L/100km (6AT), on our drive loop out we managed 7.8L/100km in the 6-speed manual
The 1.5litre engine is a ripping little engine and matched to the close-ratio six-speed manual transmission with drive to the rear wheels, the fun behind the wheel is endless. The engine is willing to push all the way to the 7,000rpm redline and is at it bests once you hit over 3,000rpm
Those buyers looking to purchase the 2.0L engine will need to wait until at least November 2015 before it arrives here. When it does the 2.0litre powered MX-5’s will produce 118 kW @ 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm @ 4,600 rpm. Claimed combined fuel consumption figures are 6.9L/100km (6MT) or 7.1L/100km (6AT)
Mazda MX-5 Interior
The two seat sports car that is well put together and has the usual great fit and finish that we have come to expect from Mazda.
The entry level Roadster model gets cloth seats, air conditioning, simple audio, speakers built in to the drivers headrest and leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter.
Jump up the Roadster model which gains black leather interior or no cost optional tan leather, MZD connect with Sat-Nav and driver and passenger headrest speakers.
Cabin space is at a premium but still large enough to accommodate two 6-foot plus males with room to spare and there is even two cup holders.
In the drivers seat the multifunction steering wheel adjust for rake but not reach. Visibility of the 3-dial instrument cluster housing the trip computer, rev counter and speedo is clear and easy to read.
Boot space is tight as expected for a car with a folding roof measuring in at 130-litres of useable space. We easily fitted two carry-on sized pieces of luggage with room to spare for jackets etc.
Mazda MX-5 Exterior and Styling
Aggressive, Athletic, Bold feel free to choose any buzz word you like, the Mazda MX-5 is beautifully styled 2-door sports car from what every angel you look at it.
The new 4th gen MX-5 is actually smaller than the out going mode with the all-new Mazda MX-5 measuring 3915mm (105mm shorter), 1235mm tall (20mm lower) and the wheelbase is 15mm shorter at 2315mm. Width is the only one up – slightly – at 1730mm up from 1720mm.
Mazda designers have shortened the front and rear overhangs and they have also reduced the volume of the body panels above the wheels to produce a low and wide profile.
Sharp lines run from grille towards the compact four-lamp LED headlights that help the front-end look part of the Mazda family.
At the rear the flared rear fenders flow in to the U-shaped rear combination lamp design and its round tail lamps which hanker back to the previous model.
The Mazda MX-5 is available in six exterior colours Ceramic Metallic white, Soul Red Metallic, Crystal White Pearl Mica, Blue Reflex Mica, Meteor Grey Mica and Jet Black Mica.
Mazda MX-5 On the Road
CarShowroom.com.au had the opportunity to sample the 1.5litre Roadster and Roadster GT on our drive down from Noosa to Brisbane via Montville.
From the outset we dropped the roof donned a cap and set off to see just how much fun can be had for $31,990.
On suburban roads laden with roundabouts leaving Noosa, the MX-5 was a breeze to drive. Visibility was clear, the 6 speed manual transmission was short and sharp whilst being a breeze in stop start traffic.
Let the Mazda MX-5 off the leash and you notice that the car weighs in at only 1,009kg and has a perfect 50:50 weight distribution. The extensive use of aluminum also helps make the car feel lighter on the road.
Unlike some sports car the suspension set-up Mazda MX-5 is on the softer side that suits the car perfectly. It allows the MX-5 to be a car that can be used as a daily driver with enough stiffness for the sportier weekend road trip.
The low center of gravity matched with redesigned double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension set-up offers high level of confidence when on high-speed winding roads.
Mazda MX-5 Issues
We understand that Mazda are trying to keep the weight of the Mazda MX-5 a close to 1,000kg as possible but in 2015 a car should come with a reversing camera as standard.
Ideally a little crackle and pop out of the engine wouldn't go astray either.
Mazda MX-5 Verdict
There might be a couple of other rear wheel drive two seat sports cars but there is only one Mazda MX-5. The latest offering from the Mazda is outstanding, on the open road with roof down it’s impossible not to have a grin ear-to-ear.
With prices starting at just $31,990 the Mazda MX-5 will appeal to a new group of buyers who thought a convertible 2-seater sports car was out of their reach.
Take the build quality of Mazda, add in 25 years of refinement and what you get is an instant classic sportscar.
Mazda MX-5 Competition
The Mazda MX-5 was one of the original modern day 2-seater sports cars and for many years had the segment to its self. Now the “others” have realised that this is a popular segment and there are many buyers willing to part way with their hard earned dollars.
Whilst they don’t have the wind in your hair fun factor the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 do offer an exhilarating drive. The Subaru BRZ starts from $37,150 drive away and entry in to the 86 is $29,990 +orc.
The aging Nissan 370Z priced from $ $56,930 (coupe) and $65,930 (convertible).
If it’s a European sourced sports car that you must have there is the Peugeot RCZ that starts from $58,990.
