Mazda MX5, the world’s best selling drop top hits SA’s shores

Here's our video overview of the new Mazda MX5.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WASisT3UcXs

The Mazda MX5 is a motoring icon, there's no doubting that. First introducing in the late 80's, this little Japanese drop top has been selling like hot cakes ever since. Good reason too; it's simple, affordable and most importantly fun to drive. Oh and of course there's the added appeal of having endless head room.

Now in it's fourth generation, the new Mazda MX5 looks to continue the traditions its forefathers set in place. In fact, Mazda has taken things even further in some aspects. For example this is the most fuel-efficient model to date, underpinning Mazda's fundamental lightweight sports car principles. And lightweight it most certainly is, having shed 100kg over the previous model to now tip the scales at just under a ton.

The chassis comes with a few tweaks as well. The motor has been pushed back a smidge, just behind the centre line of the front wheels to enhance the front-mid-engine layout giving perfect weight distribution. They've lowered the centre of gravity and shaved 100mm off the car's length too.

Under the hood lies a two litre, four pot motor with a six speed manual 'box. It's what we've come to know in the last generation MX5. Only this time with some improvements. Mazda's SkyActive technology runs really high compression ratios, dual sequential valve timing, multi-hole injectors and special piston cavities to name but a few. This all helps fuel economy and drivability. So while there's only 118kW coming out the back end, it feels somewhat more punchy.

Now that we've taken a look over the car, all that's left is to get our hands on one to give it a proper run down. That'll happen in the new year, so keep your eyes peeled.

Model line-up and Pricing

2.0L Roadster Coupe 6Speed Manual – R 389,800 (Incl VAT)

Max power 118 Kw @6000 rpm
Max torque 200 Nm @ 4600 rpm
Advanced keyless entry
Advanced keyless push-button engine start
Airbags SRS: front (driver and passenger) and side
Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio capability
Cloth Soft-Top
Climate control air-conditioning
Cruise control
Daytime running lamps (LED)
Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)
Headlamps (LED)
Headlamps auto on/off function
Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
I-Stop Standard
Leather seats
Leather-wrapped: steering wheel, handbrake handle and gearshift knob
Limited Slip Differential
Internet radio integration (Pandora®, StitcherT and AhaT)
Multi-function Commander Control
Black coloured mirrors with heating function
Premium Bose® 203 watt amplifier with 9 speakers
Rain-sensing wipers
Rear-view mirror with auto dimming function
7-inch touchscreen display (MZD Connect)
17-inch Alloy wheels
Mazda Care

3-year unlimited kilometre factory warranty
3-year roadside assistance
3-year service plan
5-year Corrosion Warranty