SE-L

The ultimate roadster. Long live the MX-5.

I owned this MX-5 RF 1.5 Skyactiv-G for a year before upgrading to the newer, brawnier 2.0 version.
Even when equipped with this considerably less powerful (130bhp, 152nm torque at 4,700rpm) 1.5 petrol engine, the car felt responsive and pulled keenly in most situations. The 0-60 of 8.4s is not fast by modern standards, but you're sat so close to the ground, you honestly feel like you're going a lot faster.
The sweet gearbox and handling afforded an exciting driving experience even in mediocre driving conditions. Perhaps the most staggering of all was the fuel economy though. Even when driven vigorously, the car frequently returned 45mpg, as high as 50mpg on long runs - knocking on the door of hybrid territory.
The biggest caveat prior to purchasing is interior space. Anybody above 6ft is going to be cramped as the interior is considerably smaller than the predecessor MX-5 (NC version). Obviously, the boot space is similarly minute - but if these issues are not of concern, and you want a frugal, exciting introductory roadster - this MX-5 could be your dream come true.
A final note would be that reviews of the RF offer a cautionary note about wind noise when the roof is down. This is correct - but the gains in reduced noise, enhanced security and warmth with the RF compared to the soft top are worth the extra money in my opinion.

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