Somerset in the ND MX-5

 

A look back at a trip to Somerset in my 2019 Mazda MX-5 ND RF, taking in the Quantock Hills and the moorland roads across Exmoor. Somerset's B-roads are some of the best in the country for a car like this - tight, twisty and constantly changing character, they're the perfect proving ground for something light and pointy.

 

The MX-5 is a genuinely relaxing place to crunch some miles. The cabin is small, but not uncomfortable, the Bose speakers give good sound quality, and the cruise control makes the drive effortless, all while getting a very respectable 40mpg from its efficient 1.5-litre four cylinder engine. It's when you turn off the motorway and onto the B-roads, though, where the car really comes alive.

 

With the roof down and the wind in your hair, the ND's character really comes to light and you understand why it's the world's best selling sports car. Something I've always admired about the MX5 platform is how light it is - with modern cars getting heavier every generation, manufacturers have a tendency to add power to disguise the weight, but with the MX-5 that's just not needed. With my RF manual coming in at just 1,113kg, steering feels responsive and direct - the nose of the car goes exactly where you steer, an analogue feeling that makes the driver feel truly engaged with the experience. It's hard not to smile. 

 

Keeping momentum is key with the ND. Without the outright power to blast out of corners, you learn to carry speed smoothly through direction changes instead, reading the road ahead and working with the car rather than relying on brute force. It's a more precise, more rewarding style of driving, and exactly why the B-roads across Somerset suit this car so well.

 

Below are some of my favourite shots from that trip, I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed capturing them.

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