2016 Mazda MX-5 Review | Club Edition

Just when we thought the driver's car was dead, Mazda drops an old school reminder of why "driving matters."

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The 2016 Mazda MX-5 Club Edition

After almost 10 years we finally get a brand new MX-5 the ND.  All of the rumors about low weight and pure driving were true. And we finally have the real product.  The new MX-5 is essentially a throw back to when cars were more simple, smaller and less weight.  The new generation brings further advancements which are mostly underneath.  Mazda re-skinned the exterior and attempted to inject steroids into the panels.  The results are as mixed as they are subjective.  The real story is the suspension and chassis.  While some may want to argue spec sheets, read shoot outs and look at performance data, the real story is about aluminum, weight reduction, double wishbone suspension and chassis balance.  And aside from posting curb weights most of the other specs will cause those addicted to power to pass out.

Looking at the overall design of the front and rear sub frame and suspension layout along with the engineering behind all of it is what separates this car from just about every other model under 50k  This does not look like some shared platform car, or a rental car mutt. It's a unique one off design that has more grassroots motorsport DNA than just about any affordable car in the world.

Now of course we can't ignore reality this is not a high performance car.  With the 2.0L DI motor borrowed from the Mazda3 we only get 155HP which was re-tuned and massaged to make much better mid-range power.   We asked Dave Coleman how is it possible for a 2.0L to make only 155HP in a 2015?  The answer was simple, they tuned the car for great power under the curve and combined it with short gearing to make it quicker than the FRS/BRZ.

It's true the car is faster, and it feels quick.  So potential owners will have to decide if it's enough. But rest assured there will be tuning options for this motor and that is already in the works.

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Engine:
Great tuning, quick response and overall great drivability.

Transmission:
Can it get any better?  Slick shifts, light action, close ration and light weight gearbox,

Brakes:
Zero issues on street, easy to modulate, minimal ABS interference.

Ride Quality Suspension:
Cowl shake over rough stuff, super smooth ride over everything else.  Body roll gives compliance and there is ALWAYS grip and control. One of the most neutral cars on the planet. Double wishbone and rear multi link designed for track and performance driving

MPG:
Amazing 32 AVG  Best Tank: 36.5

Interior:
Simple, Ergonomic but it's lack of storage makes it a tough sell for daily driving. Infotainment normally at home, looks like a stick on after thought in this car.