Friday 13 July 2012

Road - Mazda Loadsa Fun


There are still folk out there who think the Mazda MX-5 is a bit pansy. Only for hairdressers and handbag designers. But that’s only because they haven’t driven it. This is the modern answer to a Lotus Elan – but without the oil drips, hot fibreglass and fragility.

On the basis that ‘don’t fix it, if it ain’t broke’, Mazda have continually revised the car since its launch over 12 years ago, and they’ve just done it again.

The 2012 upgraded MX-5 has enhanced safety features and refined driving attributes, together with exterior and interior improvements.

Exterior changes include a new, more aggressive front bumper design that also improves the aerodynamics while inside, the dash panel and matching steering wheel spokes have been upgraded for an improved cabin ambience.

Throttle pedal actuation has been modified on manual transmission models to improve response and the characteristics of the vacuum brake-booster have been revised to optimise brake return control. The new acceleration control then kicks-in when the driver backs off the brake and steps on the gas again.

Pedestrian safety has been improved too. This model introduces Mazda’s new ‘active bonnet’ pedestrian protection system which automatically raises the trailing edge of the bonnet if a pedestrian impact is detected. This action provides immediate space under the bonnet to absorb impact energy and soften the blow. Complementing the new bonnet, the new front bumper design also enhances pedestrian leg protection.

The upgraded Mazda MX-5 will go on sale in the UK later this year, and if you still think it’s pants, go for a test drive. This is a cracking wee driver.

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