Mazda MX-5 wins Drive’s best convertible | Mazda Australia

The world’s favourite roadster is now the judge’s favourite too. We’re excited to announce Mazda MX-5 is Drive’s Best Convertible of 2018. Read more here

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Mazda NewsPOSTED ON 19/11/2018

Mazda MX-5 named Best Convertible in Drive.com.au Car of the Year awards

The world’s favourite sports car has reaffirmed its prized reputation,
nabbing the title of Best Convertible in the 2018 Drive Car of the Year awards.

The world’s favourite sports car has reaffirmed its prized reputation, nabbing the title of Best Convertible in the 2018 Drive Car of the Year awards.

Extensive testing by a team of motoring experts was undertaken to determine the winner, with the Mazda MX-5 GT variant claiming top spot after the comprehensive review.

In September, the MX-5 saw advanced technologies applied to
each of its engines, SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and SKYACTIV-G 1.5, to
extract maximum power balanced with linear response.

To match the extra power under foot, manual and automatic
transmissions were revised to deliver a sharper response and
more direct driving feel. Plus, shift timing at turn-in and torque
control at turn-out were tuned for greater precision in sporty
driving situations.

Deepening the connection between car and driver further, the update also marked the introduction of telescopic steering, making it easier to find the ideal driving position.

"The Mazda MX-5 is a genuine automotive icon, and it just keeps getting better," said Drive.com.au Editor in Chief, Andrew Maclean.

"Thankfully, in an era where technology is reducing the fun factor for enthusiasts, the MX-5 GT has an essence of simplicity which makes it such an enjoyable machine to drive, and affordable to own. The small changes made for 2018 only amplify its purity, making it the winner of the Best Convertible category in the 2018 Drive Car of the Year awards.”

Commenting on the win, Managing Director at Mazda Australia, Vinesh Bhindi, said the team were humbled by the recognition.

“With every update of the MX-5, we work to refine and build on the MX-5 driving experience, without compromising on the essence of simplicity that the vehicle is renowned for. Acknowledgement like this from industry experts is a key signifier that we’re accomplishing that.”

Earlier this month, Mazda announced its win in the Best City SUV category of the Drive Car of the Year awards, with the CX-3 Maxx Sport claiming victory.