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(Thu 12 Feb 09) Mazda has given the MX-5 sports car a significant update for the 2009 model year. The most immediately obvious change is that the styling more closely resembles that of the Mazda2, 3 and 6 ranges, and the exterior work has also led to a reduction in aerodynamic drag.
Within both the standard soft-top and the Roadster Coupé ranges there are four basic models, starting with a 124bhp 1.8-litre petrol version. The other engine is a 158bhp two-litre petrol unit which can be matched to a five-speed manual gearbox (in the cheapest car), a six-speed manual (in the Sport) and a new six-speed PowerShift transmission with paddle-shift and a fully automatic mode. Both engines are more economical than before. The 1.8's combined figure has improved from 38.7mpg to 40.4mpg, and there's a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions to 167g/km. CO2 ratings for the 2.0 range between 177 and 188g/km, depending on which gearbox is used, compared with 193g/km for the previous model. All the two-litre cars have Dynamic Stability Control, traction control, a limited-slip differential and side airbags, none of which is available in the 1.8. The Sport has Bilstein shock absorbers, a front strut brace, 17" alloy wheels, front foglights, a premium Bose audio system, Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control, while the PowerShift has all this apart from the Bilsteins. Roadster Coupé models are distinguished from the soft-tops by having more exterior chrome.
The updated MX-5 is currently on display at the Chicago Auto Show, partly in celebration of the original car's world debut at the same event 20 years ago. It will go on sale in the UK on April 1, priced between £16,345 and £20,195 for the soft-top and between £18,345 and £21,695 for the Roadster Coupé. |
