Skip advert
Advertisement
Long term tests

Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Tech

Adam Shorrock shares a great driving road that combined with the rear-drive Mazda MX-5, brings a smile to his face

If you’re lucky, your daily commute will take in at least one entertaining stretch of road. Mine is the B671 just off the A1 between Wansford and Elton. Every evening as I peel off the monotonous A605, I look forward to the challenge ahead as I attempt to improve my lines through this road’s series of technical corners.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The only aspect of the MX-5 that taints the experience is its disappointing, chattering, rattling engine sound. Whether at low speeds around town or on a sensational open-road drive like this, it simply doesn’t sound like a 2-litre roadster should.

Thankfully, the little Mazda does its best to distract you by being properly involving in the bends. The steering is well weighted and offers plenty of feedback, while sat low in the middle of the car you can really appreciate the advantages of the front-engine, rear-drive layout and perfect weight distribution. If, like me, you’re perhaps not the most accomplished of drivers, you’ll also appreciate the way the traction control cuts in every now and then to let you know when you’re running out of talent, but without stopping you dead in your tracks and spoiling the fun. It all adds up to make the MX-5 one of the most enjoyable and accessible sports cars around.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Lotus Esprit (1976-1987) review – from James Bond's icon to the Esprit Turbo
Lotus Esprit Turbo
In-depth reviews

Lotus Esprit (1976-1987) review – from James Bond's icon to the Esprit Turbo

The delicate but delicious Esprit was a supercar like no other. Here's everything you need to know and our drive of the Esprit Turbo
7 Sep 2026
BMW i8 (2014-2020) review – futuristic hybrid sports car now looks a bargain
BMW i8 review
In-depth reviews

BMW i8 (2014-2020) review – futuristic hybrid sports car now looks a bargain

The BMW i8 was a very different sort of 911 rival, not least because it used a hybrid system with a Mini engine mounted in the middle and a carbon tub
9 Sep 2026
Volkswagen Group’s survival plan and how it got in such a mess
Volkswagen ID.3
Opinion

Volkswagen Group’s survival plan and how it got in such a mess

What was 2019’s largest carmaker is now cutting 100,000 jobs and 50 per cent of its models. How did it get here?
6 Sep 2026