Since the original model transformed the sports car market in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 has become a global icon, often replicated, but arguably never bettered. The fourth-generation ND model, introduced in 2015, is as sharp and engaging as the MX-5 has ever been, and although it’s getting on a bit now, it still has a hugely enthusiastic following and it’s still a terrific car.
When buying a used Mazda MX-5, check the clutch bite, make sure all gears engage cleanly, and inspect the roof for smooth operation, leaks or damp patches. Look around the engine bay for oil leaks, test the windows and doors, and most importantly check for rust, especially on older cars (even the NC/MK3).
Alexander Gur is a Roadside Patrol at The AA, with more than 20 years of hands-on experience across garage and roadside roles, as well as a strong personal interest in performance cars.
Read bioThe Mazda MX-5 has an excellent reliability record. It’s a simple, lightweight sports car with strong engines and relatively few major issues.
Things to check include:
• Clutch wear or a high biting point with high mileage
• Stiff or noisy gear changes
• Seized brake callipers, especially on cars left unused for long periods
• Damp carpets or roof leaks
• Significant to surface rust on older examples
The 1.5-litre engine is light and rev-happy, while the 2.0-litre gives stronger performance. From 2019, the 2.0-litre ND2 gained extra power, making it the more desirable option for many buyers.
Regular servicing is the key to keeping an MX-5 feeling sharp. These engines are reliable, but they like clean, good-quality oil, especially if the car is driven hard.
Useful maintenance includes:
• Oil and filter change every 12 months or around 12,500 miles
• Brake fluid replacement every 2 years
• Air filter replacement when due
• Spark plug replacement at the correct interval
• Gearbox and differential oil changes earlier than the minimum schedule
• Coolant replacement at the recommended age or mileage
• Regular brake checks if the car is stored over winter
The MX-5 holds up extremely well over time. The engines are simple and mechanically strong, most versions use a timing chain, and the car’s simple layout helps keep repair costs manageable.
The best examples have clear service history, a dry interior, smooth manual gearbox, healthy clutch and no corrosion underneath. A cared-for MX-5 should stay reliable, and it is hard to go wrong with the MX-5.
If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it – that’s why the current generation of MX-5 has been with us for over a decade now and continues to enjoy strong sales and a huge fan base. The 2.0-litre model can nip at the heels of many more potent performance cars; such is the brilliance of its steering and handling. It remains massive fun, placing the pleasure of driving ahead of tech, unlike many newer cars.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioThe Mazda MX-5 remains one of the most accessible sports cars on the market, but its evergreen popularity means they’re not massive bargains. Used ND models start at around £11,000 for early 1.5-litre versions, while well-maintained 2.0-litre and RF models typically range from £13,000 to £25,000.
New prices begin at £28,585 for the entry-level 1.5-litre Roadster, with the top-spec 2.0-litre RF GT Sport Tech model at £35,815. Optional extras such as metallic paint, leather upholstery, and advanced safety packs can increase the price, but overall, the MX-5 offers excellent value for money, especially when you consider how well it retains its value.
The ND MX-5 is powered by Mazda’s naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G engines, which made their debut with the car back in 2015.
There are two versions available. The 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G with 130bhp, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 126 mph.
The 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G produces 179bhp, reaches 0 to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds, and can achieve a top speed of 136 mph. Both engines come with a slick 6-speed manual gearbox, although a 6-speed automatic is also offered. However, enthusiasts tend to prefer the manual and autos can be difficult to sell on the used market.
The emphasis of the MX-5 is very much on its balance and responsiveness rather than outright speed. Owing to the car’s low weight (from just 990 kg), even the smaller engine feels lively and engaging, while the 2.0-litre version offers a useful extra dose of punch.
Few cars can match the MX-5’s ability to link driver and machine. The steering is just wonderful – direct, communicative and perfectly weighted. It’s complemented by a chassis that’s beautifully balanced, while the manual gearbox is a joy to operate, snicking between ratios with slickness and precision.
The suspension set-up allows just enough body roll to make the car playful and approachable at the limit, without ever feeling overly tail-happy despite its old-fashioned, rear-wheel-drive layout. Whether you’re carving through twisty country roads or enjoying a relaxed evening cruise with the roof down, the MX-5 won’t disappoint – it’s an intoxicating and addictive car.
The ride is firm but never harsh, soaking up bumps better than many of its sports car rivals, thanks in no small part to its light unsprung weight.
The ND’s compact size makes it feel nimble and responsive, while the rear-wheel-drive layout ensures classic sports car dynamics – get the power down at just the right time and it’s immediately rewarding.
The RF model adds a touch more refinement and insulation for winter motoring, so is worth considering if you want an MX-5 as your only car. It does feel a touch heavier though and is marginally less agile as a result.
Inside, the MX-5 is compact and cosy, but thoughtfully designed to the extent that it doesn’t feel cramped.
The seats are supportive, and the driver-focused cockpit places all controls within easy reach, though compared with a lot of modern rivals, it does feel a little dated in places. Standard equipment includes a seven-inch infotainment screen with Mazda Connect, DAB radio, Bluetooth, and air conditioning. Higher trims add luxuries such as heated leather seats, a premium Bose audio system, climate control and advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring.
Practicality is not the MX-5’s strong suit – but then it’s hardly the reason you’ll be looking to buy one.
Boot space is limited to 130 litres (127 litres for the RF), enough for a couple of weekend bags if you pack carefully, but that’s as good as it gets unless you add a luggage rack.
Cabin storage is minimal, with a small central locker and a few cubbies. The MX-5 is strictly a two-seater, but legroom is adequate for most adults. Larger drivers won’t find it the easiest to get in and out of, especially with the roof up, but once inside, the driving position is excellent.
Standard features include LED headlights, air conditioning, cruise control, and alloy wheels. Higher trims offer leather upholstery, a Bose sound system, keyless entry, and advanced driver aids, courtesy of Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite.
The MX-5 is available in several trim levels, each offering a distinct combination of features. Special edition models are offered periodically – an MX-5 tradition.
Trim levels include Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line, and Homura, with special editions released regularly.
The entry-level Prime-Line comes equipped with essentials such as LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, a seven-inch infotainment display, DAB radio, Bluetooth, air conditioning, and cruise control.
Stepping up to the Exclusive-Line, you get 17-inch alloys, leather upholstery, heated seats, climate control, keyless entry, and an upgraded Bose sound system, as well as advanced driver aids from Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite, including lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring.
The range-topping Homura trim adds further premium touches, rich leather and stylish design enhancements to set it apart from the rest of the line-up.
Standard colours include Arctic White, Jet Black, Deep Crystal Blue, and Soul Red Crystal, with premium metallic finishes available. Interior options range from cloth to leather, with heated seats and Bose audio on higher trims.
Soul Red Crystal is a particularly desirable colour choice and is well-suited to the car’s rakish lines.
The MX-5 was awarded a four-star Euro NCAP rating in 2015, achieving 84% for adult occupant protection, 80% for child occupant protection, and 93% for pedestrian protection.
Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, stability control, and a deployable bonnet for pedestrian safety.
Mazda’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, and the MX-5 is known for its durability and low running costs. Common issues are rare, and most owners report trouble-free motoring.
• 1.5-litre: 44.8 mpg (WLTP), 140 g/km CO2
• 2.0-litre: 41.5 mpg (WLTP), 153 g/km CO2
The 1.5-litre engine achieves 44.8 mpg (WLTP) with CO2 emissions of 140 g/km, while the 2.0-litre returns 41.5 mpg (WLTP) and emits 153 g/km of CO2.
Insurance groups range from 27 for the 1.5-litre to 33 for the 2.0-litre, making it more affordable to insure than many other sports cars.
Annual road tax is £195 for most models, but automatic versions attract a £265 VED bill per year.
AA finance available
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