Bermaz Motor, the official distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia has officially launched the third generation Mazda MX-5, almost a year after its global debut.
Coming in as a fully CBU model from Mazda’s Hiroshima plant in Japan, the 2015 Mazda MX-5, codenamed ND, features all of Mazda’s recent innovations, including the Kodo design language and SkyActiv powertains. All of these are packaged into a little convertible that tips that scales at about 1,000 kg. Let’s see how our Malaysian Mazda MX-5 is specced.
The front fascia of the new Mazda MX-5 features a pair of auto-levelling LED projector headlights, with LED daytime running lights on each side of the bumper. Similar to the Mazda 2 and Mazda 3, the little MX-5’s centre grille features their Kodo design language, with a large smile on each car. There’s also a pair of diffuser just below the LED DRLs. The removable fabric roof can be stored behind the driver, if necessary. The 17-inch wheels are wrapped with 205/45/R17 rubbers all round.
Powering the Malaysian Mazda MX-5 is a longitudinally-mounted 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G engine that pushes out 160 PS (158 hp) and 200 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm to the rear wheels through a 6-speed SkyActive-DRIVE automatic gearbox. Sorry folks, looks like the stick shift is out of the equation. To aid fuel economy, the Mazda MX-5 comes equipped with i-Stop (idle start stop) and i-ELOOP, Mazda’s own brake energy regeneration system.
Inside, the all-new Mazda MX-5 features a very driver-centered layout, with controls all within easy reach. The leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel has a pair of paddle shifters mounted behind, while audio controls are situated on the front of the steering wheel. Red stitching can be found throughout the interior, from the dashboard, to the shift boot, to the handbrake and also on the leather seats. Bits of red stitching can also be found on the door trim.
Sitting in the centre of the dashboard is the MZD Connect 7-inch LCD display paired to the Commander Control knob beside the handbrake. Sound system is backed by a 9 speaker Bose set up with headrest mounted speakers. The Mazda MX-5 also gets auto climate control, auto cruise control, and auto dimming rear view mirror as standard fitment.
Despite its diminutive frame, the Mazda MX-5 comes with quite a lot of active and passive safety features, like Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), High Beam Control System (HCS), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), ABS, EBD an four airbags.
Those interested will have to fork out RM226,376 for one. All Bermaz-sold Mazda MX-5s will come with a three year warranty.
Mazda MX-5 photo gallery
