2024 Mazda MX-5 Review For The New Zealand Buyer

The Mazda MX-5 has been unveiled in the New Zealand market paying homage to its roadster heritage while simultaneously injecting modern aesthetics. It makes a perfect choice for a sports car that delivers a thrilling driving experience without digging your pockets deep. Its lightweight construction and low stance contribute to its agility and improved aerodynamics. If you prioritize practicality over a plush ride, then the MX-5 might not be ideal for you. It competes with the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ, Porsche 718 Cayman, BMW Z4, Alfa Romeo 4C, Fiat 124 Spider, and Lotus Elise.

Engine Options

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 comes with one engine option.

1. 2.0 L Naturally Aspirated Petrol

Transmission Options

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 engine is linked to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Grades

• Mazda MX-5 RF Limited
• Mazda MX-5 GT

For a detailed review of these grades and the best pick while buying this car, kindly refer to the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Buyer’s Guide.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Interior

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 features a minimalistic cabin that is quite driver-centric. It is not overly luxurious but combines a bit of functional space and modernity for a premium feel. Despite its compact size, the first row has plenty of legroom and headroom. The heated sporty seats provide excellent support especially when driving at a fast speed.

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 features a climate control that ensures room temperature is maintained in the cabin. The driver has excellent visibility and command of the surrounding traffic. Convenience is enhanced thanks to its keyless entry and start. The convertible rooftop allows the occupants to enjoy a refined driving experience in the open air. A glove box compartment, two cupholders, and door panel storage are incorporated in this roadster.

Besides delivering a thrilling driving experience, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 caters to the entertainment needs of its occupants. It comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Passengers enjoy high-quality audio churned out from the sound system. Other features encompassed in this car include multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a wireless charger.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Exterior

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 embodies the Kodo design philosophy that emphasizes sculpted surfaces and clean lines making the vehicle appear in motion even though it is stationary. Its classic roadster elements seamlessly blend with modern aesthetics exuding a sophisticated appearance. Up front sits a sleek grille furnished with chrome accents. The LED headlights and daytime running lights have been revised lending the MX-5 a sporty and contemporary appeal. The athletic appeal is enhanced on this car thanks to its sculpted surfaces and a somewhat sloping hood.

The long hood, short overhangs, and a low stance embodies a classic roadster that will for sure turn heads wherever it traverses. The 17-inch alloy wheels improve the overall aesthetics of the MX-5. The door handles are body-colored and the mirrors are integrated with turn signals. Its convertible rooftop adds more allure offering an option to the owner as to whether to drive on an open roof or conceal their privacy.

The rear encompasses LED tail lights and turn signals that match the headlights for a cohesive look. The rear bumper is integrated with a twin exhaust maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance. The trunk lid is attached to a subtle spoiler that enhances its sporty appearance while simultaneously improving aerodynamics.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Carrying Capacity/Cargo Capacity

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 offers a boot space of 130 liters.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Fuel Consumption

• 2.0 L Naturally Aspirated Petrol fuel consumption- 13.8 km/l

2024 Mazda MX-5 Fuel Tank Capacity

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 has a fuel tank capacity of 45 liters.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Ground Clearance

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 has a ground clearance of 6 inches.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Performance

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 is available in one engine option, a 2.0 L naturally aspirated petrol churning out 181 horsepower and 205NM of torque. This engine perfectly balances performance and fuel efficiency. Enthusiasts who value performance and commuters who want a daily driver will appreciate the MX-5.

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 delivers a smooth and composed ride. It features a rear-wheel drive configuration that ensures the vehicle maintains its maximum composure and agility. The steering wheel is very responsive and the driver has excellent visibility and command of the oncoming traffic. The chassis and advanced suspension system contribute to its outstanding agility especially when cornering at fast speed and responsiveness. The Brembo brakes are very robust with a high stopping power to mitigate any kind of disaster. Higher grades come with a limited-slip differential that improves traction especially when driving on slippery surfaces.

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 prioritizes the safety of its occupants. It encompasses a host of active and passive driver assist systems which include a lane departure warning, a blind spot monitor, an autonomous emergency brake system, a lane-keep assist, and a rear-cross traffic alert ensuring the passengers enjoy a serene ride.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Reliability

Mazda MX-5 boasts a long history of reliability. The engineering system incorporated in the 2024 MX-5 is very simple unlike other sports cars which run using complex systems hence they are prone to reliability issues. Its low maintenance costs and good resale value reveres it to many car enthusiasts. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Maintenance Schedule

At 5,000 km the 2024 Mazda MX-5 requires a change of the air filter, engine oil, and oil filter. At 10,000 km, this vehicle requires an air cleaner, oil filter, fuel filter, ATF filter, cabin filters, plugs, front brake pads, rear brake pads, ATF oil, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, and engine oil.

For a comprehensive maintenance schedule, click here to download the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Owner’s Manual.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Competitors

• Toyota GR86
• Subaru BRZ
• Porsche 718 Cayman
• BMW Z4
• Alfa Romeo 4C
• Fiat 124 Spider
• Lotus Elise