Dubbed the ‘people’s roadster’, the latest version of the iconic Mazda MX-5 doesn’t disappoint.

Industry professionals and automotive enthusiasts have been teased and delighted by the gradual reveal of the MX-5 model. At the 2014 New York auto show Mazda engineers unveiled their new, lighter chassis. Earlier this year a lucky few got the opportunity to test drive the new model, even seeing how she handles through the winding roads of the Scottish highlands.

First released in 1989, this lightweight, rear wheel drive roadster was, and still is, the perfect drive for those who love that wind in the hair feeling, but don’t want an overbearing and sometimes unreliable luxury sports car.
The MX-5 is a whopping 91kg lighter than the previous model. But that doesn’t mean the Mazda team hasn’t added more to this little roadster.

Drivers can now enjoy a 1.5L SkyActiv four-cylinder engine that produces 96kW of power at 7000rpm and 150Nm of torque at 4800rpm. It’s also been turned 90 degrees to run longitudinally, therefore sending more power to the rear wheels.

The new model is available in 6-speed automatic or manual, and the gearbox is now a full 7kg lighter, making for a smoother transition, better fuel economy and of course greater speed.

Mazda has traded the folding plastic-shell hardtop of the previous MX-5 for the new, manually-operated cloth roof.

It’s smoother and simpler to use and can be deployed or stowed from within the cabin.

They haven’t skimped on the technological refinements either. An audio system with AM/FM tuner and six speakers, AUX & USB, 7-inch MZD Connect touchscreen display with Internet radio integration, SAT Nav and keyless entry are just some of the features available with the MX-5 range.

But the standout feature of this new model is its stability. The innovative new chassis absorbs bumps along the road twice as well, so there’s very little disturbance to your drive. And thanks to the wider 205mm tyres there’s less roll on turn-in, allowing for smooth, sleek movement.

This is a fantastic little car for summer adventures, and with prices starting from $31,000 it’s more affordable than ever.