Your Guide to the Mazda MX-5 2016 2.0 Litre

The choice of two engine options is a new precedent for the Mazda MX-5. However with the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Australia drivers have the choice of the entry level four cylinder 1.5 litre or four cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engines. Mazda launched the 1.5-litre option first with a few months lead in time for the 2.0 litre. This decision was said to be to allow Mazda to get a better idea of sales potential. However, cynics say it is so that the MX-5 could take the spotlight in motoring news twice. Although, this is not the case as both variants have a different character, which will affect their appeal.

The Basics:

The 2.0 litre Mazda MX-5 starts at $34,490 plus on the road costs. This is a $2,500 premium above the base model variants and a $1,560 premium over the GT variant. There are some distinct differences including different tyres and wheels compared to the 1.5-litre models. The 2.0 litre also has daylight running LED lights and the base models also feature an MZD Connect 7.0 inch media screen that also includes satellite navigation.

Performance:

The 2.0-litre engine delivers 118 kW power and 200 Nm torque. This is 22 kW of additional power compared to the 1.5 with an additional 50 Nm torque. If you want to break down the cost of this additional umph, you will be paying $114 for every additional Kw and $50 for each Nm compared to the GT and $71 and $31 respectively compared to the GT Roadster.

The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission to deliver swift acceleration. This is no way the fastest car on the market, but it is designed to offer a rapid performance while you enjoy the ride. The upgrade to the 2.0 litre means that there is a more lively response with smooth and willing revs, especially in the higher range.

The six-speed manual model is even more attractive. It is 24 kilograms lighter, is $2,000 cheaper across all spec levels compared to the auto variant and allows drivers to really exploit the engine power. The manual feels communicative and sleek during gear changes and the clutch feels well weighted.

You should expect a zero to 100 km/h time of 7.1 seconds, which is over a second faster than the 1.5 variant time of 8.5 seconds. The 2.0 litre also has bigger brakes to ensure that it still has the excellent stopping power of the 1.5.

As with other MX-5 incarnations, the cornering is when the vehicle showcases its abilities the best. The steering feels precise and fast reacting, which allows for a genuine feel of what the front wheels are actually doing, even over bumpy terrain. The model seems so composed and wonderfully balanced; you may find that you push harder than you normally might so watch those speed limits!

If you would like to know more about the new Mazda MX-5, contact us at (08) 9403 9777. We have a fantastic selection of pre-owned and new Mazda models including the 2016 Mazda MX-5 for sale. The Wanneroo Mazda sales team are here to answer any queries or arrange your test drive.