2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Priced in the UK: £18,495

Compared to the third-gen model in SE 1.8i 5MT guise, it’s five quid less expensive, but there’s a catch. The base SE grade of the all-new Mazda MX-5 Miata is animated by a smaller engine - a 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G motor instead of the former-gen’s 1.8 MZR engine.

While the 1.5 N/A four-cylinder produces 131 PS (96 kW) at 7,000 rpm and 150 Nm (110 lb-ft) at 4,800 rpm, the older 1.8 is offering 126 PS (93 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 167 Nm (123 lb-ft) at 4,500 rpm. Despite the differences, the all-new MX-5 1.5 is a whopping 1.6 seconds faster to 62 mph (100 km/h), so you don’t lose anything in terms of straight-line performance.

If you step up to the SE-L trim level, the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata is eligible to be equipped with a 2-liter SkyActiv petrol. For £20,095, this unit churns out 160 PS (118 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600 rpm. Over the entry-level SE grade, the SE-L’s highlight standard feature is the addition of automatic climate control, cruise control, LED daytime running lights, a strut brace, and a rear deflector.

There are three more trim levels to choose from, all of them available with either the 1.5 or 2.0 SkyActiv-G engines: the SE-L Nav (£19,845 or £20,695), Sport (£21,845 or £22,695), and Sport Nav (£22,445 or £23,295). Price-wise, a well-kitted 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND) in UK-spec is close to the price of a Renault Clio R.S. and the Toyota GT86 boxer-engined sports car. The UK ordering books open at the end of August.