The joy of driving
The new Mazda MX-5 reminds us why driving is so much fun
Mazda would be an understatement. And with the introduction of this latest fourth generation MX-5 (known technically as the ND), Mazda is set to continue a very colourful and much welcomed tradition.
Introduced locally just a few weeks ago by Bermaz Motor, the official importer, assembler and distributor of Mazda cars in Malaysia, the MX-5 has created quite a stir amongst enthusiasts and car lovers, and it is easy to see why.
The new MX-5 is beautiful from all angles, especially in this Soul Red Metallic colour, it truly etches out the beautiful lines of the car. The design is a throwback to the classic GT car with its long front and short rear overhang. It also comes with quite a lot of kit, Bermaz has been sure to spec the car out with almost everything that makes driving it all the more special. Some of the items include auto start stop for better efficiency, lane departure warning, automatic adaptive headlights that turn the headlights according to the position of the steering wheel and even Mazda’s signature i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system.
Standing next to the car you will notice that it is low slung and on the smallish side, it is how MX-5’s have always been. But don’t let the small size fool you though, take a seat behind the wheel and you will notice exactly how comfortable it really is. Well, except if you weigh over 100 kilograms or are over 1.8m tall, at which point the MX-5 will shrink around you. But that aside, the interior is surprisingly pleasant. The sitting position is spot on, the seat does not recline too far back, but there is an irritating bump on the floor about one centimetre high that gets in the way of your left foot, but despite that it still is a great place to be in; long drive or short commute.
Quality, as with all modern Mazdas, is top notch and on par with the Europeans. Interior design is simple and uncluttered and lets you focus on the drive ahead. Interior features include a keyless entry system together with a push start button, there is the MZD Connect entertainment system with a seven-inch screen that gives you access to the CD player, Bluetooth, USB, AUX and SD card connectivity. All of these are connected to a nine-speaker