Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015) Review

Mazda MX-5
1.5 [132] SE-L Nav+ 2dr
£14,325

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015) At A Glance

Honest John Overall Rating

A small weight penalty over the fabric-roofed model is not a great price to pay for the added refinement and security of the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe’s folding hard-top. Although it’s showing its age, it remains a great car to drive.

Electrically folding hard-top. As good to drive as standard model.

Not much room in cabin. Limited boot space.

Insurance Groups are between 21–28
On average it achieves 95% of the official MPG figure

A folding hard-top gave Mazda’s MX-5 Roadster Coupe a different appeal to the traditional fabric-roofed roadster, meaning it could be enjoyed year round in comfort and refinement. It also allayed some buyers’ concerns about security and brought the Mazda into closer contention with the BMW Z4 and its German rival the Mercedes SLK. Read on for our full Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe review.

Mazda’s MX-5 has always been popular with British buyers, offering a fun-to-drive sports car at an affordable price.

However, the changeable British weather means the folding fabric top isn’t always ideal, so the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe was introduced in 2006.

It combines the best characteristics of the fabric-roofed model with the additional benefit of an electronically folding two-piece metal top. And it only added 37kg in weight – about the same as teenage passenger.

The character of the car is retained despite that additional weight. Buyers gain better weather protection, improved refinement and superior security, while losing barely anything.

It makes the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe an even more desirable used car than the regular Mazda MX-5 of the same era.

Unfortunately, it is starting to show its age now. Material quality and technology have come a long way in the years since the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe’s introduction.

The cabin feels a bit out of date and it’s tight for space, with little in the way of elbow room or headroom for taller drivers.

More importantly, engine technology has improved substantially since the car was launched. The 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engines aren’t very efficient or clean – the most frugal model has official economy of 40mpg and emissions of 167g/km.

Even so, it doesn’t cost a fortune to run the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe compared with many sports cars.

That said, the Mazda MX-5 in any form – hard or soft-topped – is a joy to drive on a twisting country road and on a hot, bright summer’s day this compact, nimble little sports car feels genuinely special.

The steering is perfectly weighted and packed with feel and both the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engines are powerful enough to be fun.

As a second car for weekends and odd trips, or for someone who values wind-in-the-hair, enjoyable motoring over cheap fuel and low emissions, there’s still a lot to like with the Mazda MX-5, and the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is the icing on the cake.

It’s just as good as the fabric-topped car, but with the advantages afforded by a metal roof.

Fancy a new Mazda MX-5 RF? Read our Mazda MX-5 RF review here.

Reviews for Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015)'s top 3 rivals

BMW Z4

Better looking and a sportier drive than its Z3 predecessor.

Mercedes-Benz SLK

Georgeous jewel like looks reminiscent of a miniature McLaren SLR. Electric folding hard top. A much...

MINI Convertible

Good looking and highly desirable. Cooper S version is fast.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015) handling and engines

Driving Rating

Few cars come close to the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe for sheer driving fun, and none gets near for the same money. It proves you don’t need extreme power for on-road thrills.

Engines range from 1.8i to 2.0i PowerShift
Readers report Real MPG to be between 26–44 mpg

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Handling and ride quality

One of the issues buyers of the metal-topped Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe will be concerned about is added weight – a thin layer of fabric is obviously much lighter than electric motors and a load of metalwork.

Extra weight often means a dulled driving experience, but thankfully that’s not the case with the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe, as its roof adds only 37kg over the soft-top model.

The car feels like it belongs on a twisting country road. It’s been designed with driver enjoyment at its core and it really does show, even now that it’s a bit long in the tooth.

The suspension is fully independent and so offers great handling with reasonable – if slightly jiggly – ride quality. The steering is close to perfect; it’s well weighted and wonderfully communicative, letting you feel the road through your palms.

Thankfully the hard-top Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is more hushed than the fabric-topped model, but it’s not exactly a limousine – there are squeaks in the cabin and there’s noticeable noise from the road and the wind.

But it’s easy to forgive the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe’s flaws when you find a great, scenic route on a beautiful day. It’s not a hugely expensive car and yet it feels genuinely special.

It’s balanced and poised and proves that you don’t need incredible power or extreme speed to deliver true enjoyment.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Engines

Although the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre engines are past their best in terms of economy and emissions, they’re both perfectly enjoyable on the road.

The smaller 126PS engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox and the larger 186PS engine to a six-speeder, but picking between the two is tricky, as they feel fairly similar.

Buyers of the 1.8i won’t feel shortchanged, as peak torque is 170Nm while the 2.0i musters up 186Nm.

Neither engine offers blistering performance, though. The 2.0i is the quicker from 0-62mph, but it still takes 7.9 seconds – not slow, but not speedy, either.

This doesn’t really matter, though. Both engines come alive at high revs and give the feeling of real pace, even if you’re well within the speed limit.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Safety

The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe’s roof arguably offers a bit more protection from flying debris in the event of a collision compared with the soft-top Mazda MX-5.

More pertinently, it comes with twin front and side airbags as standard, and there’s ABS anti-lock brakes and ESP traction control.

You can also switch off the front passenger airbag to fit a rear-facing child seat to add a hint of practicality to the mix.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Towing

Forget it. The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is a lightweight sports car and is not rated for towing.

Engine	MPG	0-62	CO₂
1.8i	39–40 mpg	9.4–9.9 s	167–174 g/km
2.0i	35–37 mpg	7.9–8.9 s	177–193 g/km
2.0i PowerShift	35 mpg	8.9 s	188 g/km

Real MPG average for the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015)

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

95%

Real MPG

26–44 mpg

MPGs submitted

264

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015) interior

Interior Rating

The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is undeniably snug for two occupants, and boot space is tight. But it’s well laid out, with all the key controls close at hand, and this adds to the sense of driving involvement the car delivers.

Boot space is 150 litres
Euro NCAP rating of four stars

Dimensions
Length	3995–4020 mm
Width	1720 mm
Height	1255 mm
Wheelbase	2330 mm
Full specifications

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Practicality

With just two seats, you expect a cramped cabin and that’s exactly what you get. The driving position is low to the ground and closed in – the car almost feels like a cocoon wrapped around the seats.

Elbow room is a little tight and taller drivers might struggle to get comfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. For most people, though, it’s simple to find a good driving position.

The major controls are laid out in a way that makes them intuitive to use – the steering wheel is low and close, the gear lever has a short throw and the pedal box is nicely spaced.

These factors make for a car that feels natural to drive and that adds to the sense of involvement. It feels like you’re in the car and you’re in control. In an era of models which detach the driver from the sensations of driving, this is very welcome.

Thankfully, the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe feels a little more modern than its soft-topped counterpart. It’s more refined and feels more substantial – and it comes with the added bonus of the electrically folding top.

Unlock the roof, press the button and it folds into the same cubby hole behind the seats as in the fabric-topped car, so load capacity is unaffected.

At 150 litres, it’s hardly a spacious boot, but you can’t expect much better from a small sports car.

It’s big enough for a quick shopping trip or a weekend away, and it’s the same size whether the roof is up or down, meaning you don’t have to pack especially light if you want to catch the sun.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Quality and finish

The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe might have been up to date in 2006, but it’s getting on a bit now, and it shows in the cabin.

Some of the smaller trim elements are a bit behind the times, such as the air vent nozzles.

They work fine, but they aren’t up to the standards of similarly priced cars from other makers like Volkswagen.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Infotainment

While the driving position is good, the standard audio system looks old-fashioned.

Upper trim grades get the advantage of a touchscreen nav system, although it could be easier to use.

It’s not a patch on the later fourth-generation Mazda MX-5’s infotainment, which uses a simple rotary controller.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015) value for money

Value for Money Rating

Nobody buys this kind of sports car using a spreadsheet, but the good news is that the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe remains reasonably affordable to run. Used prices aren’t excessive either, but steer clear of the cheapest models.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Prices

There’s no price premium to pay for choosing the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe over its soft-top sister.

It’s best to avoid the cheap and cheerless offerings at the bottom of the market that will likely have high mileages and rusty undersides.

Instead, reckon on spending from around £4000 for an early car in good order with around 60,000 miles, which will get you a 1.8i or the livelier 2.0i with a manual gearbox.

For a later car, you can find a 10-year-old Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe with less than 30,000 miles on the clock and in superb condition for around £8000.

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015): Running Costs

There are two engines to choose from with the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe – 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol units.

The 1.8 is marginally more frugal, claiming up to 40.4mpg combined economy, while the 2.0-litre manages around 36.2mpg.

Our Real MPG data shows those numbers are pretty much on the money, so fuelling the car is not going to hurt your bank balance unduly.

In terms of road tax, you can expect to pay between £305 and £335 per annum for the 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre respectively. Again, not deal-breaking sums.

There’s more good news when it comes to servicing a Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe, as most parts are very reliable and service items are cheap as they are largely shared with other cars. Just beware of any rust that might have started to develop and deal with it promptly.

Insuring a Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is going to cost more than the average small hatchback, but not by as much as you might think. It sits in groups 21 to 27 (out of 50), which compares favourably to many other convertibles and hot hatches.

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Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe (2006 – 2015) models and specs

An almost bewildering range of special editions were offered, but the core of the line-up starts with the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe SE, which comes with climate control, electric windows, remote central locking and heated door mirrors.

You also get an audio system with AUX-in, steering-wheel mounted audio controls and leather-trimmed gear lever and steering wheel.

The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe Sport Tech adds cruise control, auto-dimming rear view mirror, Bluetooth, leather seat trim and an upgraded audio system.

With the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe Sport Tech Nav, you get TomTom navigation.

Dimensions
Length	3995–4020 mm
Width	1720 mm
Height	1255 mm
Wheelbase	2330 mm

Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight	1192–1261 kg
Boot Space	150 L
Warranty	3 years
Servicing	12500 miles

Spare Wheel
Standard	Tyre-repair kit

Costs
List Price	£18,209–£23,710
Insurance Groups	21–28
Road Tax Bands	H–J
Official MPG	34.5–39.8 mpg

Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult	-
Child	-
Pedestrian	-
Overall	4

On sale until June 2017

Convertible
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
1.8i 126 SE 2dr	£20,010	38.7 mpg	9.9 s
2.0i 160 25TH Anniversary 2dr	£23,005	36.2 mpg	7.9 s
Roadster 1.8i 126 Sport Graphite 2dr	£21,010	39.8 mpg	9.9 s
Roadster 1.8i 126 Sport Venture 2dr	£21,010	39.8 mpg	9.9 s
Roadster 2.0i 160 Powershift 2dr	£23,710	34.5 mpg	8.9 s
Roadster 2.0i 160 Sport Graphite 2dr	£23,015	36.2 mpg	7.9 s
Roadster 2.0i 160 Sport Tech 2dr	£23,105	34.5 mpg	7.9 s
Roadster 2.0i 160 Sport Tech Nav 2dr	£23,310	36.2 mpg	7.9 s
Roadster 2.0i 160 Sport Venture 2dr	£22,705	36.2 mpg	7.9 s

On sale until October 2015

Convertible
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
1.8i SE 126 2dr	£20,000	39.8 mpg	9.9 s
2.0i Sport Tech 160 2dr	£23,300	36.2 mpg	7.9 s

On sale until April 2015

Convertible
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0i PowerShift 160 2dr Auto	£23,695	35.3 mpg	8.9 s

On sale until December 2011

Open Car
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
2.0i SE 2dr	£20,785	37.2 mpg	7.9 s

On sale until January 2009

Open Car
Version	List Price	MPG	0-62
1.8i	£18,209	38.7 mpg	9.4 s
2.0i	£19,188	36.7 mpg	7.9 s
2.0i Sport	£20,657	34.5 mpg	7.9 s

Model History

December 2007: ‘Niseko’ edition announced
June 2010
February 2011
February 2012: Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition announced
November 2012
November 2012: Upgraded for 2013
January 0001: Mazda MX-5 / Performance & Economy
January 0001: Mazda MX-5 / Price List - December 2012
July 2013
October 2013
February 2014: MX-5 Sport Venture models introduced
June 2014: MX-5 Roadster Coupe 25th Anniversary Limited Edition launched
September 2014

December 2007

‘Niseko’ edition announced

Named after Japan’s most prestigious skiing resort. Available from £17,995 on-the-road, the Niseko offers up to £2,000 worth of additional or exclusive extras over and above the equivalent standard models. On sale from 1 January 2008, both the ‘entry-level’ 1.8i Niseko soft-top (126ps, five-speed) and the £19,995 2.0i Niseko roadster coupe (160ps, six-speed) are available in an exclusive new bespoke colour ‘Icy Blue’ metallic, as well as Sunlight Silver metallic – for no additional charge.

June 2010

Continuing to celebrate the 20 th Anniversary of the world’s best-selling roadster, Mazda has introduced a new ‘summer special edition’ version of its iconic sportscar, named the Mazda MX-5 Miyako. The new model, which is on sale from 1 July, is available in two versions – the 1.8i Miyako soft-top priced at £18,385 (on-the-road) and the more powerful 2.0i Miyako roadster coupe with the world’s fastest folding powered roof (up or down in 12 seconds), priced at £20,885 (on-the-road).

The name ‘Miyako’ is taken from the idyllic Japanese holiday island of Miyako-jima, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful spots in Japan and the perfect location for open-top motoring.

The new Miyako is generously equipped with the interior benefitting from unique Medici premium perforated black leather trim with a red underlay and stitching, special badging, floor mats and climate control air-conditioning. The exterior includes front fog lamps, larger 17-inch alloy wheels, a front suspension strut brace (for improved steering response), and free metallic paint.

The 1.8i 126ps Miyako soft-top accelerates to 62mph in a brisk 9.9 seconds, while the 2.0i Miyako roadster coupe with its 160ps engine undercuts that time by two seconds. Combined mpg and CO2ratings are 40.4/38.2mpg and 167/177g/km, respectively. Both Miyako models carry generous equipment levels with many features as standard including: remote central locking, a leather steering wheel with audio controls, an MP3 compatible audio system with six speakers and auxiliary (AUX) jack input, as well as heated electric mirrors and electric front windows, a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser. In addition, Limited Slip Differential (LSD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) are included on the 2.0i.

Both versions of the MX-5 Miyako will be available in Aluminium Silver Metallic, while the soft-top will also be available in Velocity Red Mica – free of charge. Just 500 examples of each version will be manufactured for the UK market.

February 2011

To celebrate global production of the Mazda MX-5 passing 900,000 units, UK sales of the world’s most popular roadster reaching more than 100,000 cars and the approach of spring – Mazda introduced a new special edition.

The MX-5 ‘Kendo Special Edition’, is named after “The way of the Sword” – a modern Japanese martial art renowned for its fighting spirit, eye-catching dynamic movement and refinement. Two versions will be available from 1 March 2011. The Mazda MX-5 1.8i Kendo soft-top costs £19,255 (OTR) and the more powerful Mazda MX-5 2.0i Kendo roadster coupe has a £22,320 (OTR) price tag.

The Kendo models are designed to appeal to both the traditional soft-top roadster customer and those is in search of a more premium product with the Roadster Coupe. Based on the ‘SE’ derivatives, both Kendo models feature a unique Stone Leather interior (with Stone coloured stitching on the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake), unique 17-inch alloy wheels, exterior badging and floor mats, plus front fog lamps, heated seats, brushed aluminium style-bar trim and aluminium pedals.

The Kendo Roadster Coupe boasts three additional items of equipment – a premium BOSE audio system, Bluetooth hands-free and cruise control. Both versions offer a choice of Sparkling Black or Dolphin Grey mica paint finish – free of charge.

Mechanically the Kendo twins are identical with their regular siblings, delivering the same unique driving pleasure. The Kendo soft-top is powered by a 126ps 1.8-litre engine, the Roadster Coupe by a 160ps 2.0-litre unit.

February 2012

Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition announced

Available in Soft-top or Roadster Coupe with upgraded luxurious specification, advanced technology, premium interior trim and exclusive exterior colours.

Based on the Mazda MX-5 SE and Sport Tech models, the Venture is available as a 1.8 MZR Soft‑top (SE) and a 2.0 MZR Roadster Coupe (Sport Tech) - with the world's fastest powered retractable hard top, up or down in just 12 seconds - with a dozen items of additional equipment over the donor car and priced at £18,995 and £22,285 (OTR).

Specification features light gun metal 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome front grille, piano black fashion bars and special ‘Venture Edition' badging. Inside, stylish Havana Brown heated leather seats, leather steering wheel and hand brake with contrasting grey stitching, matching door trim, climate control air-conditioning, piano black dashboard accents, alloy pedals, cruise control (a first on 1.8 models) and, for the first time on MX-5, a satellite navigation system. Supplied by Sanyo TomTom, the sat-nav features a fully integrated 5.8-inch touch screen monitor, 4GB SD card based map (45 countries), live services, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity and complete multi-media functionality.

The Mazda MX-5 Venture will be available in three colours, the popular Metropolitan Grey Mica and two exclusive colours to this MX-5 special edition - Radiant Ebony Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent - free of charge. A genuine special edition, only 250 examples of the Venture Edition Soft-top and 550 of the Venture Edition Roadster Coupe will be available in the UK.

Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition customers have a choice of two powertrains - the 126ps 1.8 MZR with a five-speed gearbox (Soft-top) and the 160ps 2.0 MZR with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission (Roadster Coupe). Like other MX-5 models, the Venture Edition combines razor sharp handling with lively performance - sprinting to 60mph in 9.9sec (1.8 Soft-top) and 7.9sec (2.0 Roadster Coupe), and capable of going on to reach top speeds of 121mph and 136mph respectively.

For optimum handling stability, the MX-5 Venture Edition features Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a Traction Control System (TCS) on both Soft-top and Roadster Coupe models. While the two-litre Roadster Coupe model is also equipped with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) for enhanced handling precision and side airbags for added protection.

November 2012

Facelifted Mazda MX-5 announced With more responsive acceleration and braking, but also an aggressive front-end design as well as enhanced pedestrian safety. Mazda’s technology specialists fine-tuned the acceleration management program (on manual shift models) to improve acceleration control and with it the linear response to throttle input, especially at lower speeds. By optimising the vacuum brake booster, meanwhile, they also enhanced brake return control.

The upshot is better handling thanks to superior front-rear load distribution. The facelifted MX-5 is ahead of the curve in other ways, too. The new active bonnet system automatically raises the hood during an impact with a pedestrian, enlarging the crumple zone to prevent or at least diminish the severity of injuries, particularly to the head. The lower section of the front bumper has also been reinforced to better protect people’s legs.

The MX-5 is thus ready for stricter EU pedestrian safety standards. When adding these safety features, designers also reworked the front-end of Mazda’s legendary two-seater. The deeper grille and new bumper design express a lower, wider stance and a more assertive face, while the new fog lamp bezels and chin spoiler improve aerodynamics.

Available as a retractable hardtop coupe or classic soft-top convertible, the new MX-5 comes in a choice of eight body colours including one stunning new option: Dolphin Grey. Inside, the glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and panel décor provide a refined sporty optic. Powered either by a 126 PS MZR 1.8-litre coupled to a five-speed manual or the 160 PS MZR 2.0-litre with a choice of automatic or manual six-speed transmissions .

November 2012

Upgraded for 2013

Mazda revised the line-up for the MX-5 by introducing upgraded models with a fresh face, new pedestrian-friendly bonnet, satellite navigation system, side airbags, climate control air-conditioning and an even more rewarding driving experience.

The new seven-strong range of upgraded Mazda MX-5 sportscars, which introduces the 2.0-litre MX-5 Sport Tech Nav models, with integrated satellite navigation as standard - a Mazda first on the MX-5 range, is on sale from 1 December priced from £18,495 to £23,595 on-the road (OTR).

As well as giving upgraded Mazda MX-5 a fresh appearance, the new front-end design simultaneously improves pedestrian safety. Keeping ahead of tougher EU regulations, the MX-5 is the first Mazda to be equipped with the company'snewly-developed active bonnet system. If a collision with a pedestrian is detected, the trailing edge of the bonnet instantly ‘pops-up' to increase the crumple zone between the bonnet and engine, reducing the severity of pedestrian injuries.

Every upgraded Mazda MX-5 continues to offer the Japanese marque's unique ‘Jinba Ittai' handling finesse with a rear-wheel drive chassis that delivers perfectly balanced handling and pure driving exhilaration. Now, the six manual transmission models feature a modifiedthrottle to improve responsiveness and give more linear, nimble acceleration, especially when manoeuvring out of corners. At the same time, Mazda engineers optimised the vacuum brake booster to improve brake return control and thus front-rear load distribution, particularly when braking into bends.

The upgraded Mazda MX-5 benefits from enhanced equipment with climate control air-conditioning and glossy dark grey dashboard panel and steering wheel inserts on every model. Upgraded Mazda MX-5 Sport Tech and PowerShift models also gain an auto-dimming interior mirror, while Sport Tech models also boast an alloy pedal set.

New to the Mazda MX-5 line-up, the Sport Tech Nav model features a TomTom satellite-navigation system with a fully integrated 5.8-inch touch screen monitor, 4GB SD card based map (45 countries), Live Services, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, and complete multi-media functionality.

The upgraded Mazda MX-5 range also benefits from a refreshed palette of colours and new to the Mazda MX-5 range, Sparkling Black Mica, Dolphin Grey Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent. Also available is the popular True Red Solid, Aluminium Silver Metallic, Copper Red Mica and Stormy Blue Mica.

Mazda MX-5 customers have a choice of three powertrains, all fine-tuned to maximise thrills and minimise fuel consumption - the 126ps 1.8i MZR with a five-speed gearbox, and the 160ps 2.0i MZR with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission or ‘PowerShift‘ six-speed sequential paddle-shift transmission that allows manual control or a fully automatic mode.

January 0001

Mazda MX-5 / Performance & Economy

Soft-top	Power (ps)	Torque (Nm)	0-62mph (sec)	Top Speed (mph)	Combined (mpg)
1.8i MZR SE	126	167	9.9	121	39.8
2.0i MZR Sport Tech	160	188	7.6	132	36.2
2.0i MZR Sport Tech Nav	160	188	7.6	132	36.2
Roadster Coupe
1.8i MZR SE	126	167	9.9	123	39.8
2.0i MZR Sport Tech	160	188	7.9	136	36.2
2.0i MZR Sport Tech Nav	160	188	7.9	136	36.2
2.0i MZR PowerShift	160	188	8.9	121	35.3

January 0001

Mazda MX-5 / Price List - December 2012

Soft-top	'On the road' Retail	CO 2 (g/km)	RFL Band	Insurance Group	P11D Value	Monthly BIK 20% / 40%
1.8i MZR SE	£18,495	167	H	21 E	24%	£72/£145
2.0i MZR Sport Tech	£21,495	181	I	26 E	27%	£95/£190
2.0i MZR Sport Tech Nav	£21,795	181	I	26 E	27%	£96/£192
Roadster Coupe
1.8i MZR SE	£19,995	167	H	21 E	24%	£78/£157
2.0i MZR Sport Tech	£22,995	181	I	26 E	27%	£101/£203
2.0i MZR Sport Tech Nav	£23,295	181	I	26 E	27%	£103/£206
2.0i MZR PowerShift	£23,595	188	J	26 E	28%	£107/£215

July 2013

Mazda MX-5 ‘Sport Graphite' Roadster Coupe Special announced. Features paint finishes that unique to the model - Aquatic Blue Mica, Zeal Red Mica or Aluminium Silver Metallic - with a contrasting ‘Meteor Grey' retractable hard top roof. The ‘Sport Graphite' model is available with two engine options: the 126ps, 1.8-litre or the 160ps, 2.0-litre. Both offer the generous equipment levels of the standard model enhanced with an array of extra items.

These include 17-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels, black leather heated seats with unique grey stitching, 5.8-inch TomTom navigation system with integrated Bluetoothhands-free kit, glossy dark grey fashion bars, colour-co-ordinated retractable hard-top roof and door mirrors all in striking Meteor Grey, and limited edition badges on the exterior and interior.

Unique grey stitching to the leather steering wheel and handbrake; glossy dark grey steering wheel spokes and dashboard panel; an alloy pedal set; and MX-5 floor mats with unique grey piping (additional cost).

The standard specification also includes: stainless steel scuff plates, body-coloured door handles, side, driver and passenger airbags, CD radio with Auxiliary jack and six speakers, electric windows, electric adjustable mirrors with heating function and climate control air-conditioning. For optimum handling stability, all MX-5 models also feature Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS). While the 2-litre Roadster Coupe model is also equipped with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD), cruise control, auto-dimming rear view mirror and Bilstein suspension.

October 2013

205PS Mazda MX-5 RC Jota now on sale at £29,995. Sold through Mazda dealer Lodge Garage in Aylesbury. Race specialists Jota started the development of the Jota Mazda MX-5 GT early in 2012, the brief from Mazda was to increase the power to over 200PS and improve the handling without compromising the characteristics of the standard car. Based on the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0-litre Sport Tech, the Jota Mazda MX-5 GT develops 205PS from a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine and is priced at £29,995.

With a 0-60mph time of just 6.4 seconds, the Jota Mazda MX-5 GT cuts a full 1.5 seconds off the standard car with minimal change to fuel consumption and hits a limited top speed of 140mph. With uprated Bilstein dampened suspension and a rear carbon fibre diffuser, to improve aerodynamics, the car has had its handling sharpened to match the increase in power and make the Jota Mazda MX-5 GT a focused driver's car.

In addition to the uprated power and carbon rear diffuser the Jota Mazda MX-5 GT also features leather Recaro seats and will come in three colours, white pearl, true red and aluminium silver metallic, all with a brilliant black roof and anthracite alloy wheels.

Buyers can further enhance their vehicles with the option of a carbon rear boot lip spoiler, a carbon front splitter and Jota's road and track Ohlins suspension kit. Following a year of development and testing Mazda handed over the project in its entirety to Jota in 2013 for the Le Mans specialist race team to take the car to market independently as a Jota Mazda MX-5 GT. The vehicles will be hand-finished to order at Jota and available for sale through Jota and prominent Mazda dealer Lodge Garage.

Service intervals are the same as a standard Mazda MX-5 and after sales support is available through out the Mazda dealer network. Each car will be a post registration modification maintaining the comprehensive 3 year standard Mazda warranty for all non modified parts with an aftermarket extension to cover all modified parts.

February 2014

MX-5 Sport Venture models introduced

The Mazda MX-5 Sport Venture will be available as a ‘Special Edition’ in three versions, the 1.8-litre 126PS soft-top or Roadster Coupe with 1.8-litre 126PS or 2.0-litre 160PS engines. Highlighting their exclusivity, the trio will be offered with two new exterior colours and will feature stone leather sports heated seats. Prices start at £18,995, with free of charge Mica paint. All come with a new 6.1-inch Mazda Navigation System with integrated Bluetooth.

June 2014

MX-5 Roadster Coupe 25th Anniversary Limited Edition launched

On sale throughout the UK from August 2014. 1,000 individually numbered examples. Additional exterior and interior features include Soul Red Metallic paint, Brilliant Black door mirrors, A pillars and power-operated retractable hardtop roof, 17-inch Dark Gunmetal alloy wheels, a rear diffuser, chrome exhaust trim and uunique, Limited Edition numbered external badging.

Inside, Light Stone leather trimmed upholstery with contrasting red stitching to the seats, steering wheel, gearshift and handbrake lever, and 25th Anniversary logo-embossed headrests. Bespoke, hand-painted Dark Red dashboard decoration panel, Brilliant Black roll-over bar covers, alloy pedal set and 25th Anniversary stainless steel scuff plates. Also a 6.1-inch high res touch screen Mazda Navigation System by Alpine with 46 European country maps, 29 different languages, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, an integrated CD, radio and DVD player with a 50:50 split screen allowing for the simultaneous viewing of two input sources, and customisable user profile settings for each driver. Standard 2.0-litre, 16v, 160PS engine and 6-speed manual transmission.

September 2014

100 examples of the MX-5 Roadster Coupe 25th Anniversary still on sale in UK at £22,995.

What to watch out for

17-01-2011:

One complaint of frequent leaks into load area of 3 year old RC.

09-05-2012:

6-speed gearbox can regularly jump out of 3rd or 4th gear into neutral when cold first thing on a cold morning. Replacement of the baulk ring cures this.

04-06-2012:

Fault specific to the Roadster Coupe. There is a drain pipe leading from a drain hole in a rubber seal between the powered hood and the panel which moves up out of the way to allow the top to be lowered and then goes back into place, to a drain with a plastic grid over it in the floor of the boot. But the rubber drain pipe stops well short of the drain. Apparently this is necessary because the rubber drain pipe is pushed to one side by the powered top when it is being stowed. If a car is parked outside facing up a slope of 5/10%, the water from the rubber drain pipe can splash around, miss the drain below it and then leak into the boot, eventually causing corrosion.

07-08-2014:

Roof motors of Mazda MX-5 RC now starting to fail and Mazda dealers quoting £2,700 to fix them. Probably due to the above (4-6-2012). Reported by a reader with a 39k mile 2008.

13-09-2016:

Two heating elements of rear screen of 2014 Mazda MX-5 failed. Car bought used from Mazda dealer 2 weeks previously. Another more local Mazda dealer quoted £1,550 to repair. Fault is the responsibility of the Mazda dealer who originally sold the car.

11-06-2017:

Rattle reported from roof mechanism of 12,000 mile 2011 Mazda MX-5 RC after the roof had been retracted for the first time after recent purchase. This rattle was cured as follows: 1) release roof locking mechanism. 2) release small spring left of catch. 3) release calliper and push holding bolt through from left to right. 4) this will free the arm presenting a screw bolt which you tighten by one turn. 5) re-assemble.

11-05-2018:

Report of paint peeling in area between the edge of the rear window and the boot lid on a 2010 Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe. Body shop said may be a manufacturing issue: that the paint hasn't bonded well to the material underneath and is now bubbling.

20-01-2020:

Report of screenwasher jets becoming detached and going missing from 2011 Mazda MX-5 RC.