Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Tech

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.

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.