Ian writes...

My lovely little Skoda Fabia has retired after nine tough months on our long-term test fleet (look out for a goodbye report coming soon). And in its place I have pleasure in introducing you to my next set of wheels - a Mazda MX-5 Roadster-Coupé.

So why did I go for the MX-5? Well, despite the somewhat tenuous hair-dresser image, the MX-5 is one of the most enjoyable cars you can buy circa £20k. With rear-wheel drive, two seats and a low-slung driving position, it looks and goes like a proper roadster. I went for the 2.0-litre petrol engine which, although isn't a screamer, is quick enough to enjoy yourself - and will probably loosen up nicely as I bed the engine in.

Options wise, I kept it fairly trim, opting only for the Bose sound system and metallic grey paint, bringing the price up from the standard £21,100 to a reasonable £22,030. I choose the RC version because I don't trust someone not to pierce the roof with a knife, plus I will be using it throughout the winter when I can properly test the advantages of having a piece of metal rather than canvas. Heated seats mean I will probably be putting the roof down on icy mornings, too.

Another recent addition to our fleet is a BMW 135i Convertible, so it will be interesting to compare these two drop-tops which sit at opposing ends of the scale. My money's on the MX-5 for its low-speed fun, speedy roof and frugality.

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