MX-5 is as iconic to Mazda as Beetle is to Volkswagen, so there is little surprise how familiar the third-generation MX-5 looks. The classic shape and rounded ends are included in an altogether more contemporary MX-5 design. The dashboard has a simple, neat layout to not distract from driving. Despite the larger size and new bodyshell, Mazda has managed to minimise any weight increase. On the roads, MX-5 is the usual loads of fun, thanks to its lightweight and optimally-balanced rear-wheel chassis. MX-5 is easy to drive well, offering impressive grip levels and excellent body control. The steering is sharp, accurate and detailed on feedback. MX-5's rigid chassis is free from scuttle shake, thereby providing a reasonably comfortable ride over rough surfaces, despite the firm suspension. With the hardtop down, a conversation can still be maintained; roof up, wind and road noise are not intrusive. The driving position is perfect, with all controls handily in place, but the steering column can only adjust for height and not reach. The dashboard feels solidly-assembled and nicely-finished. The materials used are more tough than appealing, but are of much higher quality than in the previous model. According to JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, Mazda has consistently taken the top few spots in terms of reliability. And we expect MX-5 to maintain that impressive record. The 2.0-litre, with 166 bhp at 6700 rpm and 190 Nm at 5000 rpm, is paired to a close-ratio six-speed automatic transmission. To exploit the full potential of the brilliant chassis will require a heavy right foot, which will inevitably dent the fuel economy, but we reckon most will be addicted to the high-revving action. Room and practicality are hardly MX-5's strong points, but driver and passenger now get more room than before. Occupants sit in a low-slung and somewhat cosy cabin that is conducive for driving. As a puncture repair kit is used in place of a spare wheel, there is now boot space for a couple of small bags. The roof can be taken down electrically via the pressing of a button. Fuel economy is good for a sports car. Maintenance and repair costs should be reasonable too. The lack of competitors in the segment and the small number of MX-5s on the roads should be factors enough to warrant more than decent resale values. MX-5 is not known for luxury or comfort, and the Mazda badge is hardly that attractive. Bring in the asking price and MX-5 will need to be seriously talented to even make sense to buyers. But the single talent that MX-5 boasts is one that appeals to the heart than head. That involving drive and the resulting pleasure does not come cheap, but it is sure worth every ringgit. MX-5 gets leather steering wheel with audio controls, 17-inch aluminium alloys, leather interior trim, power door locks, power windows, power side mirrors, fog lamps, remote keyless entry, driver/passenger/side airbags, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), immobiliser, manual air-conditioner, and radio/MP3/CD player with six speakers. If you only consider MX-5's ability to carry two and that the engine will likely be high-revving for most of the time, MX-5 is far from “green”. However, there are few other sports cars that can provide the same driving pleasure at such low levels of carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption.