The 3rd Generation MX-5 is launched.

On the evening of 19 October we were invited by Priory Fives of Cambridge to have our own private viewing of the new MX-5. There were two models for us to play with (although no actual chance to drive on this occasion), the 2 litre 3rd Generation Launch Edition and a more basic 1.8. Having personally been a bit sceptical about the looks of the new car, now I’ve had the chance to give it a good old prod, and sit in it (and since this event drive as well) I’m convinced that its going to be another sure-fire winner. (Not that I expect Mazda were to worried by my opinions). The car retains all the character and charisma that made the original MK1 such a success but updates the package in to a more refined 21st Century roadster but it still has a manual roof which you can still get up and down in seconds without leaving your seat, what more do you want?

Our very own Robbie Marsh of Priory was lucky enough to attend the official European Dealer launch event in Portugal at the end of October and here are a few of Robbie’s thoughts on the new car;

© 2005 Martin Curtis

My first proper drive of the NC was in the mountains of the Algarve in Portugal on twisty hilly roads that God put on this earth with the MX-5 in mind. I was a bit sceptical about a ground up rebuild of the MX-5 with pretty much the only part carried over from the outgoing model being the wing repeaters, but when I drove it, it convinced me that it was still the MX-5 I know and love.

The responsive steering has just as much feedback as before although I did feel the steering wheel could do with being a bit smaller. Although it is loaded with driver aids, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control (TSC), Anti Lock Brakes (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) these do not take away from the fun of driving. You can still push the car to it’s limits and it still prompts a great big satisfied smile.

If anything, it is reassuring to know the electronics are there keeping a watchful eye over your driving just in case you approach a corner that little bit too fast (for example while driving in the Algarve). You can switch the DSC off should you really want a bit of “tail out” action though. Only getting chance to drive the 2 litre car I can say that it is a lot quicker than the outgoing 1800 as you expect as it has more power and torque, it still is not an amazingly fast car but it was never designed to be.

The all new 6 speed gear box has a shift quality that in my opinion beats all previous MX-5 boxes redefining flick of the wrist gear changes. I like the look of the MK3, its aggressive stance, bulbous wheel arches but still sporting the cheeky instantly recognisable “face”. I think the cabin also has a MK1 feel with its oval interior door handles and rounded dashboard crash pad. Overall, once we get used to the major differences and quirks with the All New MX-5 I think we’ll all come to accept it as….

© 2005 Roadster Robbie

Official Press Release here.