Used Mazda MX-5 for sale near Carlisle

CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 380
Average Price: Around £15,000

Mazda MX-5 (2015-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Irresistibly fun to drive	A bit cramped for tall drivers
Extremely reliable	Early cars have less safety kit than later models
Affordable to buy and run for a sports car	The boot is small

Quick Summary

The Mazda MX-5 mk4 (2015-present) is the world's best-selling roadster, and for good reason. Launched in 2015, this fourth-generation model maintains the original's philosophy of delivering engaging driving thrills without excessive power or complexity. Weighing just 1,075kg and roughly the same size as the 1996 original, the MX-5 mk4 offers a lively driving experience with either a 1.5-litre engine producing 129bhp or a 2.0-litre unit delivering up to 181bhp. Both engines are smooth, economical, and paired with a slick six-speed manual gearbox. The crisp steering, agile chassis, and easily operated soft-top roof make this a genuinely entertaining daily driver that doesn't demand expert driving skills to extract maximum enjoyment.

Practicality takes a back seat to driving pleasure, with a tight two-seater cabin and a modest 130-litre boot. Tall drivers may find the cabin cramped, though the steering wheel is adjustable for reach on 2019 models onwards. However, the MX-5 mk4 excels in running costs, with real-world fuel economy exceeding 40mpg even when driven spiritedly. Insurance groups are reasonable for a sports car (groups 25-32), and servicing costs are modest at independent specialists. The car is extremely reliable and builds an emotional connection with owners, making it an affordable and rewarding sports car for daily use.

Best for: Enthusiast drivers seeking affordable sports car thrills, those wanting a reliable and economical two-seater roadster, and buyers who value engaging driving dynamics over practicality.

Not ideal for: Tall drivers requiring spacious cabins, families needing rear seats or boot space, or those prioritising modern safety technology on early models.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the MX-5 if: You're an enthusiast driver seeking affordable sports car thrills, wanting a reliable and economical two-seater roadster, or prioritising engaging driving dynamics over practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You are tall and require a spacious cabin, need rear seats or significant boot space, or require modern safety technology as standard on all trims.

Competitive Position: The Mazda MX-5 (2015-present) stands as the superior choice among convertible roadsters, offering the finest driving experience and reliability. Whilst the Fiat 500 Convertible offers better value for money and the MINI Convertible provides more premium appeal, neither matches the MX-5's engaging dynamics, affordability to run, or emotional connection with drivers. The MX-5 mk4 represents the pinnacle of affordable sports car ownership, delivering point-to-point performance that belies its modest specification and proving that you don't need excessive horsepower to enjoy genuine driving thrills.

Read our full Mazda MX-5 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.