2009 Mazda MX-5 Reviews

Ewan Kennedy road tests and reviews the used 1989-2014 Mazda MX-5.

Not only becoming the biggest selling roadster of all time, but also nudging many other car makers into building open-top cars, something that had previously seemed to be impossible due to ever tightening safety regulations.The Mazda sportscar is a delight to drive, with pin-sharp steering, excellent road grip, near-neutral balance and the ability to change direction mid corner at the merest hint through the wheel that it’s needed. Many owners love to take them for a quick blast along their favourite stretch of road on a sunny Sunday morn.They usually drive with the top down of course, even if the weather is threatening. That’s because the soft-top only takes seconds to send down and pack up again. You can do it when stopped at a red light, though it does require you to have a supple body, because a fair bit of upper body twisting and shoulder strength is needed.A folding hardtop roof made things much simpler when introduced in September 2006. It not only works neatly, but has added a minimum of weight to the car and takes little away from luggage carrying capacity. So popular did the folding hardtop become in Australia that imports of the soft-top slowed to a crawl and in the latest model, introduced in November 2012, the hardtop became the only unit offered in Australia. You may be able to get one on special order by speaking to your Mazda dealer.The Mazda MX-5 was launched in Australia in October 1989 and remained almost unchanged in its body until March 1998, when a near-new car was introduced. The original model had pop-up lights, the latter one fixed units. At the same time, an increase in boot space made the MX-5 a more practical car, one that could be used as a daily driver by a couple.A facelift in October 2000 saw the rounded grille replaced by what Mazda calls a five-point grille to bring it into line with the styling of the rest of the Mazda family. An all-new MX-5 arrived in October 2005. It was slightly larger than before, though weight rises were kept to a minimum.Engine power isn't quite as impressive as the chassis dynamics; the original MX-5 only had 1.6 litres. That was lifted to 1.8 litres in November 1993 in a new engine that was slightly modified but, surprisingly, wasn’t as happy to rev as in its previous incarnation although torque was fattened out.The 1998 model change kept the engine at the same size but gave it a little more punch, although still not quite enough. In October 2000, the engine received a new variable valve timing system to improve power and torque. Response was significantly improved with that latest engine but is still nothing to get excited about.A 2.0-litre engine was introduced in the new 2005 model and is arguably the best yet. Changes to the 2.0-litre engine in 2009 and 2012 saw it able to rev to higher numbers, yet it was improved in the low down grunt department at the same time.Anyway, half the fun of driving a little roadster like this is rowing it along on the gearbox, going for the right gear at the right time to make the best of the engine’s limited power. The gearchange on the original Mazda MX-5 is one of the sweetest units you will ever meet, with short positive changes that not only work well but feel great at the same time. So the relative lack of engine power is actually a bonus in the minds of some owners.Earlier gearboxes were five-speed manual units. A six-speed was used in the 10th Anniversary limited edition of 1999, and became standard in the October 2000 model. The six-speed is a close-ratio unit, having a similar ratio in top gear in both boxes. To our way of thinking the six-speed isn't quite as pleasant in its feel as the latter five-speed, but it’s still an excellent unit.An automatic transmission with six forward ratios became an option in 2005. Believe it or not, it's almost as nice to sit behind as a manual because of the very-sporty programming of its electronics. Good design and high build quality mean the MX-5 is reliable. It’s fairly easy for a good amateur mechanic to work on and spare parts are normally reasonably priced. The Mazda dealer network isn't huge but works effectively and we have heard of no real complaints about availability.Insurance can be expensive, particularly for young and/or inexperienced drivers so it’s worth shopping around to get the best deal. As always, make sure you understand what you are getting for your premium dollar.WHAT TO LOOK FORIn early models look for stitching that's worn or even broken in the soft-tops and for discolouration in the plastic rear window in early models. A glass rear window was used in the new model of 1998. Check under the carpets for dampness as the car may have been caught with its top down in the rain. It's best to ask the owner of the car for permission before pulling up the carpets.It's probably best to keep clear of MX-5s that have been used in lap dashes at race tracks or in rallies. These can often be recognised by tyre scrubbing (if they haven't just been renewed to hide the fact) and by the fitment of a rollcage, fire extinguisher or extra instruments. Also look for heavy deposits of brake dust on the callipers and the inside of the wheels.Check that the Mazda's engine starts easily, idles reasonably smoothly and doesn't blow smoke from the exhaust under hard acceleration. The gearbox should be light and positive in its change action and not baulk or crunch even on the fastest of changes. The third-second change is usually the first one to show up any troubles.Look for crash damage that's been repaired, indeed it may be very wise to call in a professional if you are in any way suspicious.CAR BUYING TIPBeware the sports car that has actually been used as a car in sport - these are comparatively rare and may be in need of expensive repairs.

The arrival of the Mazda MX-5 in 1989 was like a breath of fresh air in a market that was as dull as dishwater.It was a car you could truly enjoy driving again, a modern sports car that turned the clock back. Like all good things, the MX-5 has evolved over the years into a more refined, more sophisticated car, and you can't blame Mazda for allowing it to happen.The first MX-5 appealed to sports car buffs and anyone who wanted to relive their long lost youth, but when that demand was satisfied Mazda had to broaden its appeal to win over buyers who weren't traditional sports car buyers.Those buyers typically wanted the fun of the sports car, but weren't keen on giving up the comforts of the regular passenger cars they'd been driving. Hence, the MX-5 grew in size, comfort, and refinement. It became more serious.The 2009 update model was greeted with enthusiasm, rated the best ever. Outwardly there wasn't a lot of change apart from the smiling corporate grille that was common with the rest of the range in this new era of Mazda success.But the changes went deeper than a mere grille swap, the body was stiffer, the suspension was fine-tuned, the steering sharpened, and the engine output boosted. Where Mazda had one model in 1999, the range had grown to four models in 2009, with the choice of two-seater convertible and two-seater coupe with a folding roof.The folding roof helped rekindle dwindling sales when it was released in 2006, and the 2009 model went further by reducing noise levels and overall harshness. While Mazda made the sorts of improvements that would appeal to those not really committed to sports cars, they also made the driving experience better for those that are.The stiffer body made the steering response much sharper and the engine was more responsive with a new exhaust note that echoed the performance boost. At the top of the range the fully loaded Sports Coupe boasted BBS alloy wheels and Recaro seats.IN THE SHOP Mazda is a generally reliable brand and its cars give little cause for concern. The MX-5 rarely crosses our radar here at CarsGuide, suggesting owners are having a largely trouble free run from their cars. While it is early days for the 2009 model and most will have done less than 50,000 km, history suggests that there will be no hidden demons in the foreseeable future. For the moment look for oil leaks around the engine, and any signs of harsh treatment and crash damage, and seek proof of maintenance.IN A CRASH The MX-5 was well equipped with safety features, including front and side airbags, ABS braking, stability control and traction control. Equally as important it had a stiff chassis with the agility and responsiveness to avoid a crash.AT THE PUMP Mazda's official claim for the MX-5 was 8.1 L/100 km average; road testers at the time of the release recorded numbers above 9.0 l/100 km, but these higher numbers are likely to have been the result of a heavy right foot.MAZDA MX-5Price new: $42,460 to $49,805Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol; 118 kW/188 NmTransmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automaticEconomy: 8.1 L/100 kmBody: 2-door roadster, 2-door coupeVariants: Convertible, Coupe, Coupe Sports, Touring ConvertibleSafety: 4-star ANCAPVERDICTMore refined, but also reinvigorated, and even better than before.

The giant grin already seen on the Mazda3 has been slapped on the world's best selling sports car to mark the change to a 2009 model, but the car drives a long way different from a simple cosmetic tweak.There is nice new comfort stuff in the latest MX-5, but there have also been some significant — and worthwhile — improvements to the mechanical package. The basic body is stiffer, there have been changes to the steering and suspension settings, and even the carryover 2-litre engine has been freshened and given a sportier note.The bottom line still looks good, with recommended retail prices from $43,850 through to $51,455, covering the basic soft top through to the loaded Roadster coupe sports that picks up Recaro seats and BBS alloy wheels.The spread of MX-5 models now gives Mazda buyers more choice against the latest rage of of hardtop convertibles from other brands, from the Mini Cabrio and Ford Focus CC through to the Renault Megane, as well as BMW's raunchy 1 Series droptop. But it is still only a two-seater, and a tight one too.The move to a folding electric hardtop helped to pull back some lost ground and now Mazda is going softer again with the improvements to noise levels and all-round harshness. But, thankfully, the softer touch is also sharper in the driving.The new car is an update to the third-generation body that arrived in 2005 with more cabin space and a look which reflected the thinking behind the then-new 3 and 6. It's still the same in the basics but Mazda points to everything from a 'soft-touch' pad on the centre console and a new storage net on the passenger's side to new valve springs and a forged crankshaft in the engine.This year is the 20th anniversary of the MX-5 and the numbers look good, from 855,000 worldwide sales and 15,000-plus deliveries in Australia — no-one is sure of the exact number of 'grey' imports, some even carrying Eunos Roadster badges, which have landed — to 178 worldwide awards.Mazda Australia is still forecasting 500 sales a year, which reflects the ongoing popularity of the car and the proven appeal of a REAL sports car in a world of hot hatches and soft-stock coupes.It's still a car people buy to reward themselves and, despite the popularity of CC coupes, has the sort of driving enjoyment that is impossible to match below $100,000.To be honest, I really wasn't expecting much from the latest MX-5. Just that big grin on the car and a grin for me after seat time with my favourite baby sports car. I already knew the MX-5 is no straightline match for a Mini S Cabrio and lacks the space of a Megane CC, and the update work on the '09 car looked like the usual bla-bla-bla stuff that's so common from carmakers.Then I rolled through the first kilometre. And then five. And then ten. And I was won.The new MX-5 feels like a totally new model after the last one, which was the first model I drove with the folding hardtop. The superseded MX-5 was — to be honest — a bit slow, too noisy, and missing the sparky edge which had been a hallmark since 1989.Now it's back. The new car has instant-response steering, is a lot quieter and more refined, has an engine which sounds and feels more responsive, and even benefits from things like Recaro seats with better comfort and support.I had to find out what has happened."It's all about the stiffening. They've put a lot more strength into the chassis and that is why you can feel all the other stuff," says Allan Horsley, motorsport manager at Mazda Australia.Horsley has been responsible for the SP range of upgraded Mazda models, including a rorty little MX-5, and knows his stuff.For technical types, the tweaks for '09 include a lower front rollcentre, sharper steering settings and changes to the suspension, while the engine has a redline set 500 revs higher, stiffer internal parts and some tweaking to the induction.The result is a car that feels more like the 1989 original than the 2005 tweak. I still miss the rifle-bolt action of the original five- speed gearbox — lost when Mazda when to a Toyota six-speed — but even the gearshift is a little more direct than before.On the downside the headlamps are dismal and the engine is still way behind the best 2-litre fours, and I wonder about the need for the electric hardtop. Then again, I don't live in an inner-city ratrace with slash-and-grab thieves who love softtop convertibles.The driving experience on the '09 MX-5 is sharp and rewarding and the engine has enough pull from 2000 to 6000 revs to make any twisty road fun. The brakes, as you'd expect, are great.Surprisingly, there is even enough space for a couple of nights away with a partner who is eight months pregnant, although several pieces of luggage had to be tucked down inside the cavity below the folding roof. I also love the Recaro seats in the MX-5 Sports pack, for support and comfort, but have to complain about the boring steering wheel and a system that does not adjust for reach.But those are little things and, for my money this is the best MX-5 since the first one in 1989. I've driven them all and I like this the most.

It is becoming the Galapagos turtle of the motoring world — fascinating in its ability to look its age when born and exactly the same a century later.

So you, the driver, can choose who sits in the remaining seat. No kids in the back jabbing each other with their elbows, staring at the floor so they turn green with car sickness or whine about not be

The model is now more than 20 years old and in its third generation guise.  But the sweetly styled sportscar has remained a light-weight two-seater, powered by a rear drive four-cylinder engine with perfect 50-50 weight balance.Mazda's now retired MX5 program manager, Takao Kijima, says the company has resisted temptation to fiddle with the formula that has made the MX5 a world-wide success.Kijima knows what he's talking about. He was the chassis engineer on the first MX5 when work started on it in 1986, culminating in its launch in 1989.More than 850,000 have been sold worldwide and it has won too many awards to list. Kijima admits that a bigger engine, maybe even a rotary, would give the car faster acceleration but its essence would be lost."If we put a bigger engine in it would be a much more expensive car too," he says. "It's our philosophy to deliver a light sportscar.  It's very important for us to provide maximum satisfaction for the driver."Turbocharging too would be beneficial but overkill, he says. However, the company is aware that it must keep the car fresh.To that end the newest MX5 adopts the more pronounced Mazda `smiley face’ family grille and some subtle design changes that deliver a tougher, more masculine look. The lower side sills provide a stronger, more aerodynamic look and the rear bumper and lights are better integrated.Mazda has added a new model to the line-up, the Roadster Coupe Sports, bringing to four the number of model choices. With the revisions have come modest prices rises of 2 per cent, between $980 and $1195 depending on the model.Apart from exterior changes the cabin has been reworked slightly to lift quality and improve user friendliness. The excellent Bose sound system carries over and so too, the car's excellent passive and active safety systems.An auxiliary jack is also now part of the package for MP3 compatibility. The 2.0-litre four cylinder S-VT engine also continues but has been tweaked to provide better mid-range response and fuel economy.The engine now spins out to 7500 revs and the synchromesh on the six-speed manual gearbox has been improved for smoother shifting. Manual buyers also get a limited slip differential as standard. The six-speed Activematic, which accounts for about 38 per cent of all sales, is a $2200 option.Underneath, the double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension has been tuned for more precise reaction to steering inputs and the front roll centre has been lowered 26mm for more linear steering response.The MX5 continues to have one of the stiffest two-seater convertible body structures around.  Almost 60 per cent of the car's body is made from ultra-high tensile steel and this creates a very stiff body structure.The hardtop is expected to account for 80 per cent of sales and its light-weight folding roof folds compactly into a space behind the rear seats, allowing maximum use of the boot.  Mazda also points out that because the roof mechanism is relatively simple and does not fold into the boot - closer to any rear end shunts - the car's insurance premium is better.  Like the previous model, the hardtop opens or closes in 12 seconds.Mazda says extra sound-deadening in the hardtop has helped lower cabin noise. In true Mazda fashion, the individual changes add up to another complete sportscar. Driving FIRST up, we'd have to say that the MX5 has no logical competitors this side of a Lotus.Of its closest rivals, perhaps the Nissan 350Z Roadster comes close but costing about $75,000, it is also a more expensive car. The Ford Focus Cabrio, Holden Astra Cabrio, Mini Cooper Cabrio, Peugeot 207CC, Volvo C70 convertible and Volkswagen Eos may match its open-air abilities and add two extra seats but as Takao Kijima says, they may not have that almost intangible `essence’ that is an MX5.We've said before that the MX5 is a masterpiece of design, packaging and dynamics and this carries over to the new car.  The car's styling was already good but the subtle changes have given the overall look a new leash on life and a more purposeful stance.It could be argued that the Mazda "smiley face" grille works better on the MX5 than it does on the new Mazda3.  Inside, moving the cupholders, making the armrests more comfortable and the overall quality lift of the cabin are measured and well thought out.Fortunately little has changed about the cars steering, suspension or dynamics. They remain impressive. On the road, the MX5 will bring a smile to any jaded driver who has tired of revenue-raising speed cameras and inattentive drivers.Unleash the two-seater in a corner and the chassis balance and grip is quickly apparent.  The ride too is surprisingly comfortable and supple.However, without driving the previous model back-to-back it is hard to measure the improvements to the free-revving 2.0-litre engine. It feels strong, will happily sing right up to 7500 revs and on manual models, the "sound enhancer" does provided a meaty sound to the engine.While maximum torque is still produced at 5000 revs, maximum power is up 300 revs to 7000 revs. The 2.0-litre four remains a smooth and enjoyable powerplant. The biggest problem is perhaps deciding between the slick six-speed manual or well-sorted ratios of the automatic with its steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.We managed to spend time in both the standard Roadster Coupe and Sports model, which adds Recaro sports seats and BBS alloys, which add a more customised look to the car.  The comfort of the Recaros cannot be faulted but any generously proportioned drivers may prefer the standard seats.The softer looking dark silver panel across the dash is an improvement over the previous piano black too.  Despite work on reducing cabin noise on the Roadster, at highway speeds the noise levels are still disappointing.  But that's a very small niggle.The MX5 has won more than 180 awards in its 20-year history, including a listing in the Guinness Book of Records as the best selling open two-seater ever.  We can only add that if you have an automotive must-do list, owning an MX5 should be at Number 1.