2025 Mazda MX-5: Extending Convertible Season in the Maritimes

October in southern New Brunswick doesn't always mean putting the sports car away. Mild weekends between autumn storms offer a final chance to enjoy top-down driving before winter arrives. The 2025 Mazda MX-5 makes the most of these fleeting Maritime days with lightweight performance designed for coastal roads.

The MX-5 weighs just 1,076 kg with the manual transmission, making it one of the lightest sports cars available in Canada. This low weight sharpens steering response and acceleration, letting drivers feel every corner along routes like the Fundy Coastal Drive. The rear-wheel-drive layout and near-perfect weight distribution create balanced handling that responds predictably on both straight sections and tight curves.

Lightweight Performance Engineering

The fourth-generation MX-5 uses high-strength steel and aluminium components to minimize weight without compromising structural rigidity. At 1,076 kg (manual) or 1,095 kg (automatic), the car weighs roughly 200 kg less than most compact sedans.

This weight reduction affects several aspects of driving:

• Quicker acceleration from stops
• Reduced body roll in corners
• Shorter braking distances
• More responsive steering inputs

For drivers chasing October's last warm weekends, the lightweight design means more engaging drives on roads like Route 177 to St. Martins or coastal sections of Highway 1.

Engine and Transmission Options

The Skyactiv-G 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine produces 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The redline sits at 7,500 rpm, encouraging drivers to explore the upper rev range.

Three transmission configurations are available:

The manual transmission features short, precise throws and a relatively light clutch effort. The automatic includes paddle shifters and can be left in manual mode for full control on winding roads.

Fuel economy ratings (manual transmission):

• City: 9.0 L/100 km
• Highway: 7.0 L/100 km
• Combined: 8.1 L/100 km

Top-Down Driving Before Storage Season

October offers inconsistent weather in Saint John and surrounding areas. A sunny afternoon might follow a rainy morning, creating narrow windows for convertible driving. The MX-5's soft-top design opens or closes in seconds without leaving the driver's seat.

The manual soft-top on GS models folds down with a single motion after releasing two latches. No tools or complex steps are required. Drivers can drop the top at a red light and raise it just as quickly if weather changes.

RF models (GS-P and GT) feature a power-retractable hardtop that operates at the touch of a button. The hardtop provides better insulation and security compared to the soft-top when parked.

Kinematic Posture Control for Coastal Roads

The MX-5 includes Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), a software-based system that improves body control during cornering. KPC applies slight braking force to the inner rear wheel during high-g turns, which reduces body roll and keeps the car flatter through corners.

This system activates without driver input and doesn't add weight to the vehicle. On twisty coastal routes where corners come quickly, KPC helps maintain consistent handling balance.

What to Expect on October Drives

Temperature Considerations: October highs in Saint John typically range from 8°C to 15°C. Midday drives offer the warmest conditions, usually from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Morning and evening drives require layers, as wind chill increases at highway speeds.

Route Suggestions:

• Route 177 to St. Martins: 40 km of coastal scenery with moderate curves
• Fundy Trail Parkway: Limited October access, but remaining open sections offer excellent driving roads
• Highway 1 west toward St. George: Less traffic than summer months, with scenic river views

Top-Up Reminders: October showers can appear suddenly. Keep the top latched when parked, even during sunny conditions. Soft-top models include a glass rear window with a defroster for year-round visibility.

Safety Features for Fall Driving

The MX-5 includes several i-Activsense safety technologies:

• Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Smart City Brake Support Front
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Lane Departure Warning System
• High Beam Control

These features help during October driving conditions when wet leaves, reduced visibility, and changing light conditions create additional hazards.

Preparing for Storage Season

For drivers planning to store the MX-5 through winter, October represents the final driving opportunities before preparation begins. Basic storage preparation includes:

• Full fuel tank with stabilizer additive
• Battery tender connection
• Tire inflation to recommended pressure
• Thorough wash and wax to remove road salt
• Interior cleaning to prevent moisture and odour

Some Maritime drivers keep their MX-5 on the road year-round using winter tires and regular undercarriage washing to manage salt exposure. The car's light weight and rear-wheel drive require careful attention on icy roads.

Key Takeaways

Experience the MX-5's driving dynamics at King Mazda in Saint John this fall. Test the car on local roads to see how it handles Maritime conditions before the season ends.