The latest-generation 2015 Mazda MX-5 convertible is now available to pre-order in the UK, ahead of its arrival in dealerships later this summer.
Potential customers are being asked to place a £1,000 deposit with their nominated Mazda dealer. This will also enter them into a competition to win a trip driving the new MX-5 in the hills around Barcelona, Spain.
The announcement of pre-orders being taken coincides with production getting underway, with the first models now rolling off the assembly line in Hiroshima, Japan.
The fourth-generation of the world’s best-selling sports car has returned to its roots, being even shorter in length than the petite Mk1 model launched in 1989. It’s also the lightest version since the Mk1, weighing less than a Ford Fiesta, at around 1,000kgs.
While its entry-level 1.5-litre petrol engine with 129bhp might not sound overly powerful, this lack of mass means it’ll still offer enough performance to entertain most drivers. For those wanting a bigger kick in the back, a 2.0-litre petrol will also be offered with 155bhp.
But, sheer performance has always been secondary to the fantastic handling offered by the low-slung, rear-wheel drive Mazda. Direct steering, a snappy six-speed manual gearbox and 50:50 front to rear weight distribution should offer more than enough driving fun to attract buyers.
The interior has been brought up-to-date with a minimalist layout focused around a tablet-style touch-screen infotainment system. For launch, the soft-top roof remains manually operated, with one hand required to lift it up and drop it down.
Full pricing is yet to be announced, but the MX-5 is expected to cost from around £20k.
