In this article:
Who is the Mazda MX-5 a good car for?
What is the Mazda MX-5 like to drive?
Tech features in the Mazda MX-5
Similar cars to the Mazda MX-5
Is the Mazda MX-5 a good car?
The Mazda MX-5 is not the world's best-selling roadster for no reason. It's a reliable and trustworthy offering that is guaranteed to make you smile with astounding handling dynamics, an energetic engine and wind-in-your-hair thrills.
Who is the Mazda MX-5 a good car for?
The Mazda MX-5 is best suited to singles or couples who enjoy driving. Its 2-seater arrangement and limited storage space make it impractical for families and those with young children. It's best utilized as a weekend car or occasional car for up to two people.
Is the Mazda MX-5 a good first car?
Inexperienced or newer drivers will struggle with the Mazda MX-5 a little as the low-slung driving position and rear-wheel-drive layout is best suited to the more experienced hand. That being said, the current generation Mazda MX-5 is fitted with several driving aids and safety systems to make it easier for those with less experience.
Is the Mazda MX-5 a good family car?
The Mazda MX-5 is not a family car unless you buy two of them and are comfortable with taking separate cars! The limited storage space and 2-seater arrangement negate the use of an MX-5 as a family car.
Is there a Hybrid Mazda MX-5?
Current generations of the Mazda MX-5 are only available locally with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with no hybrid or electric version available. Mazda has confirmed that the next generation Mazda MX-5 will be available with a hybrid powertrain.
View the latest used Mazda MX-5s for sale in South Africa>
What’s it like to drive?
The Mazda MX-5 is a thrilling and engaging roadster that will excite drivers and passengers alike. The 50:50 weight distribution and front-engine, rear-drive layout of the powertrain makes it every bit the fine handling, capable sports car one could want. While often criticized for its lack of straight-line speed, the MX-5 makes up for it in the twisties with a predictable, balanced demenour that will encourage spirited driving.
Drop the roof and experience the world around you like never before.
Reviewers opinion
"The MX-5 is like a jealous lover or a Jack Russell Terrier: It demands your undivided attention. With feline agility, the MX-5 carves the sides off those corners. It’s so nimble and reacts to steering input so quickly, you had better be wide awake. Using the standard cruise control and auto headlamps is the laziest the MX-5 will allow you to get. But if you’re feeling particularly exuberant, there’s traction control which can be switched off. A limited-slip differential helps you power out of corners."
- Autotrader
Read the full Mazda MX-5 review: Mazda MX-5 is Medicine for the Mid-Life
What does it look like?
Exterior
Interior
What is the Mazda MX-5 like inside?
Space is not a luxury one is afforded in the Mazda MX-5. The interior is best described as cosseting but even taller individuals will manage to fit inside the diminutive roadster thanks to a low seating position and well-laid out controls.
The interior trim is of very high quality with leather-wrapped features and raised stitching, complemented by body-colour trim pieces on the doors for a retro look and feel.
Style.
The Mazda MX-5 is aggressively styled and features sharp angles and creases, offset by smooth-rolling lines. The front end features aggressive headlights and an upturned grille while the rear resembles the likes of the Jaguar F-Type sports car.
The wheels are set far in the corners and the contrasting roof and windscreen pillar help create a more streamlined look. The Mazda MX-5 certainly looks more expensive that the price dictates.
Tech features.
- 7-inch touchscreen MZD infotainment system
- BOSE 9-speaker audio system
- ABS with EBD and EBA
- SRS front and side airbags
- Auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers
Price and specs.
Which is the cheapest Mazda MX-5?
The Mazda MX-5 roadster was discontinued in 2017 (locally) and the MX-5 RF with its retractable fastback (RF) was discontinued shortly thereafter. Mazda South Africa is awaiting the next generation MX-5 before placing it on sale again.
Search the latest New and Used Mazda MX-5 deals in South Africa
How much does it cost?
Prices range from as low as R380 000 for a used Mazda MX-5 RF and R300 000 for a used soft-top Roadster.
Which Mazda MX-5 trim holds its value better?
Comparisons.
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