Gentle criticism of the MX-5's growing size across the first three generations led Mazda to target mass reduction on their fourth-generation ND MX-5. And with around 100kg shed in weight plus a 100mm reduction in length the Mk4 is smaller and lighter than its predecessor - with a kerb weight of around 1,000kg.
Bucking the trend for forced induction, the Mk4 comes with a choice of two direct-injection normally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engines - a 1.5 and a 2.0-litre. The £18,495 entry-level 1.5 SE feels lively, but with just 131hp at 7,000rpm, it needs to be revved hard to feel fast - it officially sprints to 62mph in 8.3 seconds. The torquier 133mph 160hp 2.0-litre car feels a bit more relaxed - and is a second quicker. In fact, the difference is substantial - with the bigger-capacity model packing 148lb ft versus just 111. However, the 1.5-litre car delivers an impressive 47mpg combined fuel economy, for those who worry about such things.
Mazda also released its folding hard-top version - the MX-5 RF - which looks like a Targa top, with a centre section which folds away behind the passenger compartment. Performance is slightly blunted mind, and if you you opt for the 2.0-litre engine and Sport trim the price rises to £22,795.
The Mk4 was launched with both a six-speed manual shift transmission as well as a six-speed automatic transmission, and Mazda enthusiasts will tell you the cockpit, steering wheel, and infotainment system are a close match for the Mazda 3. The Convertible comes with a manually operated fabric roof and the current range-topper is the Sport Nav which boasts Bilstein dampers. UK sales already sit at just over 9,000, but would-be Mk4 buyers should note that there was a global Technical Service Bulletin for some early models manufactured prior to October 2016 affecting the manual transmission.
"The 2.0 Sport Nav models are a great buy new," according to Neil Mckay at BBR GTI. "Just £1,100 more than a 1.5 brand new, with the added benefit of an all-important limited slip differential and Bilstein suspension - it has everything you could ever need for £24k." Alternatively, a smart choice would be to buy a low-mileage 12-month old Recaro model, "Or if you're looking for an RF, the later Launch Edition - as the seats alone are worth sacrificing a brand-new buy," Neil feels.
Bear in mind that there are currently some big discounts currently available on new cars - with the 1.5 SE possible for under £20,000 and the 2.0 Sport Nav for just £22,000 - so we wouldn't pay more than £18,000 tops for a used example. Needless to say, with so many examples already around residuals over the next few years won't be as good as those on the earlier Mk1, Mk2 and Mk3.
Buy if: you must have the latest model irrespective of the cost
Don't buy if: you're concerned about residual value, or you intend to modify the car
We found: 2016 Grey 2.0 SE-L Convertible, full service history, 10K miles, £17,495
Price Guide
Poor: Under £15,000
Good: £15,000 to £17,000
A1: £17,000+
Special Editions: Too early to say, but Sport Nav much sought after