Mazda MX-5 (2010)

There are four model variants: the Soft-top, Soft-top Touring, Roadster Coupe and flagship Roadster Coupe Sport.

The latter two come with retractable hardtop, offering the best of both worlds: security (being harder to break into) and a cosier drive (better noise suppression and insulation), yet with the delights of open air motoring at the push of a button. The hardtop is quick and easy to put up or lower, taking just 12 seconds, and does not take up boot space when stowed, as it recesses elsewhere. A wind deflector mounted behind the head rests eliminates most of the buffeting that otherwise might spoil the top down driving experience.

Our test car came with standard six-speed manual, a gearbox renowned for its slick shift, but there’s an optional six-speed Activematic. The 2.0-litre powerplant provides enough ‘oomph’ for the driver to enjoy the MX-5’s great chassis and dynamics, but so capable is the overall set-up that it could easily handle more. The steering is accurate and communicative, the ride firm but compliant, the grip levels tenacious and the brake pedal progressive and unfaltering. Little wonder the MX-5 has written its way into the record books as the biggest-selling sports car of all time.