Mazda MX-5 cars

What types of used Mazda MX-5 cars are there?

A used Mazda MX-5 is likely one of the main models that comes to mind when you think ‘convertible sports car’. 

This plucky little two-seater Japanese roadster is one of the most popular in its class, and not just because it’s fun to drive – it’s the cheapest too.  

The current generation of MX-5 has been around since 2015 and arrived as a lighter and more efficient version of its predecessor.

It's available with two different engine options in the form of a 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre unit.

On top of this, there are four different trim levels on offer: SE-L; Sport; Sport Tech; and GT Sport Tech.

If you want to get nerdy, there's also a limited-edition Sport Venture floating around the used market too. 

A used Mazda MX-5 is popular among motorists who want to relax and have a touch of luxury in their life, in a car that’s gorgeously styled and feels great to drive.  

It comes with Mazda's reliable reputation too, so you know it’s a car that’ll go the distance.  

– Read our Mazda MX-5 review

What features does the Mazda MX-5 have?

A used Mazda MX-5 will come with a range of features and boasts an impressively plush cabin.  

It offers plenty of leather and every model comes with a seven-inch infotainment system that features sat-nav as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.   

Uprated models may also feature a nine-speaker Bose sound system and a reversing camera.   

Aside from this, the MX-5 is also packed full of equipment to improve cornering and offer improved driving characteristics, which is what makes this little car so fun to drive. This includes things like placing the seats to achieve a greater centre of gravity and lower suspension.   

Impressively, the bonnet has been specially sculpted to divert the airflow, so it doesn’t mess up your passenger's hair when the roof is down. 

You can see the full range of features available in each model by looking at our current used Mazda MX-5 listings.  

Is the Mazda MX-5 reliable?

Buying a used MX-5 is one of the best things you can do if you're after sports car fun without the fear of breaking down. This is because Mazda has a long history of building reliable engines and cars with solid build quality.

They're also safe cars which is why the MX-5 scored four out of five stars following its most recent Euro NCAP safety test – an impressive result for a two-seater convertible sports car.

How much does the Mazda MX-5 cost to run?

A used MX-5 will come with a choice of engines, including the entry-level 132hp 1.5-litre four-cylinder and the larger 184hp 2.0-litre unit.  

The former is perfect for most people and offers plenty of poke – up to 45mpg. Mazda’s engineers say this will be more fun to drive because the engine is lighter, creating a lower overall mass.  

If you want a bit more power, then we would suggest looking at the larger 2.0-litre engine. This is fitted with Mazda’s Skyactiv technology, which is designed to increase the car’s overall fuel efficiency – this claims 41mpg, which is impressive for the size of the engine.  

As for gearbox options, all variants come as standard with a very impressive manual gearbox, which is famed throughout the motoring industry.  

The RF version is the only model that's available with an optional automatic gearbox, but we would always suggest the manual because it's more fun and is the reason the MX-5 is so popular.   

Who is the Mazda MX-5 suitable for?

The beauty of buying a used Mazda MX-5 is that it's suitable for anyone and everyone. Whether you're after a daily driver or something fun for the weekends, a used MX-5 will suit your lifestyle perfectly unless you need a large boot. In which case, you're better off with a larger Mazda such as the CX-30 or CX-5.

Like with all sports cars, there are plenty of rivals to consider and these include the Audi TT, BMW Z4 and Fiat 124 Spider.