The Car Guide’s 2019 Best Buys: Mazda MX-5
Spring is about to arrive, and we’re finally decided to buy an affordable convertible. But which one should we choose? To help consumers make the right purchase, The Car Guide publishes every year its Best Buys in a host of various vehicle categories, including the convertible segment.
The Best Buy title for 2019 goes to the Mazda MX-5, a little two-seat convertible that offers amazing driving pleasure. With its superb handling, its precise steering and its playful character, the MX-5 is proof that we don’t need an overly powerful engine to have fun behind the wheel.
And yet this year, Mazda’s roadster benefits from a larger cavalry under the hood, as its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine now produces 181 horsepower. Midrange torque is also more exploitable than before, meaning passing power has improved. In addition, the MX-5 pleases with its resolutely seductive design, its well trimmed cockpit as well as its optional power-retractable hard top that adds a touch of luxury. The Mazda MX-5 retails from $32,900 before freight and delivery charges.
In second place amongst convertibles, we find the Fiat 124 Spider (MSRP from $34,795) that shares its architecture with the MX-5. However, it boasts its own unique personality with its turbocharged, 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine, good for 160 horsepower. We love its exterior design, its cockpit finish and, of course, the driving pleasure it provides.
The Ford Mustang convertible (MSRP from $35,699) ranks third. It’s equipped with either a turbocharged, 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 310 horsepower, or a raging 5.0-litre V8 that belts out 460 horses. Obviously, performance and handling are two strong points of the Mustang, but its racy character and athletic design are just as hard to ignore.