Words: Charlie Thomas
When the original Mazda MX-5 was introduced 25 years ago, it was quite the sensation. It offered exciting, affordable, open-air motoring, which was lapped up by both critics and the general public alike. The sales figures reinforced this, and with over 900,000 sales to this day, it’s been one of the big automotive success stories of the last quarter-century.
For one reason or another though, the MX-5 has garnered a reputation for being soft, feminine even, and it hasn’t quite been able to shake this moniker. Until now.
The new Mazda MX-5 has been completely re-designed from the ground up, and it shows no matter which angle you look at it. The front end has been given an aggressive, almost angry, makeover with a gaping grille and slanting LED lights. Although they are functional, it seems the friendly demeanour of previous iterations has been lost. This can only be a good thing.
This focussed new attitude extends to other aspects of the car, too. It has been stripped of over 100kg in weight compared to the last model, and it’s lower, wider and shorter as well, giving it a dynamic edge that you’d appreciate on a mountain pass. The MX-5 has always been revered for its handling abilities and this model is set to be no different.
Whilst the engine options haven’t yet been confirmed, you can expect to find both 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines available at launch, which produce approximately 130bhp and 165bhp respectively. This kind of power in a package that’s expected to weigh just over 1000kg will prove to be an exciting pairing indeed. It’s the stunning new design that’s tingling our automotive sinuses the most though.
The original MK1 MX-5 holds a somewhat iconic status among those in the know, for its overall simplicity and dynamic handling. Since then Mazda haven’t quite nailed it, but the new model is already ticking all the right boxes. It’s expected to cost around £20,000, which represents incredible value for money too. We certainly wouldn’t say no.
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
