Model tested: Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0 Sport
Price: £20,772
Date tested: May 2007
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 86%
In the Roadster Coupe, the Mazda MX-5 has undergone its most radical transformation since its launch in 1989, with a folding hard top. But has breaking with tradition spoilt the greatness of the world's most popular roadster?

1. Looks
The third-generation edition is still obviously an MX-5 – especially from the rear, which has hardly changed since the original model. The front is less fussy than before, with more aggressive lights to give more presence.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The interior looks every inch a sports car with clear, circular gauges and simple rocker switches. The leather-trimmed seats are comfortable and supportive, even on spirited journeys.
8/10

3. Practicality
The MX-5 is far more practical than other driver-focused cars such as the Lotus Elise, but a small weekly shop is all the MX-5 can manage with its 150-litre boot. However, there's a large covered compartment in the centre console, with a bigger compartment between the seat backs, as well as a decent glovebox.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
The steering is communicative, with bags of feedback, yet the ride is good too. However, on 17-inch wheels there's a tendency to skip over bumps, which becomes disconcerting on faster or sharper bends.
10/10

5. Performance
Our 2-litre MX-5 could manage 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds (8.9 for the five-speed 2-litre model) and max out at 129mph. In-gear acceleration is brisk too, thanks to the light weight.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
All MX-5s retain around half their new price after three years and 60,000 miles. The 2-litre, six-speeder returns around 35mpg, emissions of 193g/km place it in costly Group F tax band, but insurance is low for a sports car at Group 13.
7/10

7. Reliability
The MX-5 Roadster Coupe feels superbly built, with only the occasional creak from the roof when raised. It came third best for cheapness and rarity of breakdowns in the Reliability Index.
10/10

8. Safety
This is the first Mazda roadster with side airbags as standard, joined by 'bags for driver and passenger. The passenger seat has ISOFIX anchor points (with airbag deactivation switch), while our test car had traction control and ESP.
8/10

9. Equipment
All models feature electric windows and mirrors, 16 or 17-inch alloys and that electric roof. Our car had climate control, xenon headlights and heated leather seats; all models are iPod-ready.
8/10

10. X-Factor
The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe offers one of the best driving experiences available at any price, proving you don't need to sacrifice reliability, comfort or spend big money for a proper drivers' car.
10/10