The new Mazda MX-5 is the affordable Jag F-Type we’ve all been waiting for
Sleek styling and tempting price tag means the new MX-5 could be the ultimate sports car steal
Did someone put a Jaguar F-Type on a hot wash?We’re sure Mazda’s design chief Ikuo Maeda drew on a number of influences when doodling the new MX-5 but we’ll agree it does look a bit like Jag’s latest sports car. The new Mazda actually draws from the Japanese marque’s ‘Kodo’ design language – which harnesses the “soul of motion”, whatever that means.
So what’s actually providing the motion?Mazda is still being a little cagey about the exact range of engines – but it has revealed that the MX-5 won’t be turbocharged as we first thought. Instead, it will use naturally aspirated SkyActiv petrol engines, most likely in 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre guises.
That’s a shame. So will it be boring and slow?
The plucky little MX-5 has never been the fastest car on the road but its combination of lightweight engineering, an utterly sorted chassis and brilliant handling chops has ensured it puts smiles firmly on faces at legal speeds. The newest model might feature a slight power hike over it predecessor, say around 160bhp in the most potent models, but don’t expect it to set your pants on fire in terms of all-out speed and acceleration. It will drift around corners nicely, though.
Any neat gadgets inside?
There isn’t much information on its tech particulars – but we do know the interior steals many bits from the current generation Mazda 3. That means the slick floating infotainment system with ‘click-wheel’ controls will likely feature; we’re hoping it packs a few other neat gizmos, such as smartphone tethering and driver-focussed apps. One of the MX-5’s best features is its headrest speakers, which mean you can blast tunes even when the roof is folded down.
How much will it cost?
Full pricing has yet to be revealed but expect it to cost around £20,000 for entry level models when it arrives in 2015 – which is not far off the current asking price. This will buy a new range of more fuel-efficient engines, improved interiors and even finer handling skills. Unfortunately, it also buys super bright LED headlights, meaning the sweet pop-up lamps of Mk1 models are well and truly consigned to the history books.
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Leon Poultney
Freelance Automotive and Tech Writer