For a truly engaging, modern sports car, look no further than the 2017 Mazda MX-5. This roadster has become a legend among enthusiasts for plenty of excellent reasons. With a new generation, that legacy thrives on a number of levels, while treating you to the latest in luxuries and technologies.
To help you find the right combination of features, Mazda offers three models for 2017: GX, GX and GT.
Performance
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 delivers big when it comes to performance. One of the first things you’ll notice is how well it handles any turn. Engineers placed the engine front mid-ship, which along with the rear-wheel-drive layout, makes for a nearly perfect balance of weight between the front and rear portions of the car.
All models come with a front independent double-wishbone suspension. In the rear, an independent multilink layout helps pull the car through turns with finesse.
Bolstering performance further is a structure that’s 20 percent lighter than the previous generation of the Mazda MX-5. To accomplish this feat, engineers applied aluminum and ultra-high-tensile steel to strategic portions of the vehicle. The result is no loss in stability, plus a more dynamic ride quality.
No matter which model you choose, at the heart of this roadster is a Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine. It produces a maximum 155 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque for explosive acceleration and great highway passing abilities.
Mated to the engine is either a Skyactiv-MT 6-speed manual transmission, or a 6-speed automatic with a manual mode.
Safety
You get more than just fun times with the Mazda MX-5. This roadster packs a number of excellent safety features, so you can go anywhere with confidence. For example, each model features antilock disc brakes, plus electronic brake force distribution, so you can stop in a hurry during emergencies without losing control. With the GS, you can select the optional Sport Package, which adds Brembo front brakes with unique rotors and an opposed piston layout.
No matter the model, you also get dual front and side airbags, side-impact beams, seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters, traction control, dynamic stability control and hill launch assist. Some models take safety to a new level by adding rear cross-traffic alert, advanced blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning.
Interior
You don’t need to endure an uncomfortable interior to enjoy the wondrous capabilities of the Mazda MX-5. Instead, the driver and passenger are treated to a number of comforts and conveniences. For example, the seats are contoured and feature side bolsters to help keep you in place, even when going through a sweeping turn. You can add leather upholstery, power adjustments and heaters to the seats.
The available Mazda Connect infotainment system helps you use many of the onboard systems with ease. A full-colour 7-inch screen sits at the top of the dash, while you can make selections using the HMI Commander knob in the centre console.
Many more available features make the Mazda MX-5 an attractive car, including an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic climate control, satellite radio and more.
Check out the Mazda MX-5 in person by visiting our dealership.