THE new generation Mazda MX-5, the latest version of the best-selling two-seater sports car of all time, will cost from £18,495 when it arrives this summer.

Making its UK debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July, the rear-wheel drive model will come with a choice of two petrol engines and new levels of safety technology.

Billed as the lightest MX-5 since the 1989 original, the newcomer is shorter, lower and wider than the outgoing car, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet.

Nine versions across five trim levels will be up for grabs, with the promise of new levels of performance and economy courtesy of the Japanese brand's fuel-saving SKYACTIV technology.

Standard kit across the range includes alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather steering wheel and a lightweight fabric hood.

SE-L models add LED daytime running lights, climate control air-con, DAB radio, Bluetooth and cruise control, plus Mazda's MZD-Connect connectivity and infotainment system with 7-inch colour touchscreen display and multimedia commander.

And SE-L models with the 160PS 2.0-litre engine are distinguished by 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels and piano black door mirrors.

Step up to Sport trim and both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre cars feature rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry, premium Bose surround sound and heated leather seats.

Variants fitted with Mazda's integrated navigation system come with three-years of free European map upgrades, while the range topping 2.0-litre Sport Nav is available with the optional £350 Safety Pack - including High Beam Control and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Mazda's UK chief Jeremy Thomson said: "When it was launched in 1990 the 115PS Mk1 MX-5 cost £14,249, equal to £31,687 in today's money.

"Yet 25 years later with vastly more standard equipment, the all-new Mazda MX-5 costs from £18,495, meaning more than ever the car sets the benchmark as the one of the world's best and most affordable sports cars."