New car snapshot: the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5

What is it? The MX-5 is the last of the small, lightweight roadsters, now in its fourth generation. I’ve taken a pre-Chrismas MX-5 refresher course, as my notes say it is two years since I’ve driven one. The car has hardly changed in that time – just a few minor tweaks to suspension and equipment levels – but that’s a good thing.

What does it cost? Roadster prices start at $39,060 for the base model. The GT is $45,690 and the GT RS, with a few enthusiast additions but no engine mods, is $48,690. In all cases, these prices are exclusive of on-road costs. Removeable hardtop variants are also available for about $4000 more.

What makes it go? All versions sold in Australia now have a 2-litre four-cylinder engine (the cheaper 1.5 disappeared early 2022). This generates 135 kW and 205 Nm, and drives the rear wheels, ideally via a six-speed manual box (yes, there’s an auto option, but that’s not what this type of car is about).

Why would you want it? Because the quotient of fun per expended dollar is off the scale. The MX-5 provides proof that you don’t necessarily need masses of power; just a tactile connection with a well-balanced, well-designed machine. And this provides that, to a tee. There’s a stylish body, a snug cockpit, a super-quick action roof, a lovely engine note and superb handling with just the right blend of power and grip. Although the acceleration is nothing brutal, it builds delightfully as you row through the gears. Summer days – and better still warm nights – are perfect for top-down motoring.

And to illustrate how the MX-5 has stayed on mission through the years, the original, in 1989, weighed 1 tonne with optional air-conditioning. The current model with dozens of features unavailable or uninvented back then (such as airbags, stability control, antilock brakes, cruise control, Bluetooth, adaptive LED headlights, roll bars behind the seats, heated rear window, keyless entry and start, power steering and blind spot warning) weighs only about 50 kg more. Final argument for the yes case: the lightweight, manual roadster, with all its nostalgic joys, probably isn’t long for this world. EVs might eventually shed their excess heft, but they almost certainly won’t have three pedals.

Why wouldn’t you? Because you need more than two seats and/or a tiny cargo capacity. The snug cockpit is great – unless you don’t fit (there’s not much seat adjustment or knee room). There are a few other niggles, such as a speedo which goes to a ridiculous 240 km/h without actually doing a full lap of the dial. For most driving the needle sits right down low on the left, making the increments hard to read.

And in conclusion Still the one! There will be some further tweaks, along with some minor visual and specification changes in the new year, along with a price rise. Until then, there’s not much wrong with this.