The sun’s mellow glow filters through the turning leaves, the crisp autumn air carries the scent of salt and earth, and the coast beckons with its timeless charm. The picnic’s packed, your favourite company is by your side – what’s missing? Of course, the perfect car. But not just any car.
If you’re setting out to explore the South West 660 this autumn, you want to do it in style. And we believe nothing captures that unique spirit better than hiring a Drive Devon MX-5 convertible.
Based in East Devon near Exeter on Route 3, right off those stunning coastal stretches of Route 3 on the South West 660, Drive Devon invites you to escape the motorway madness and meander Routes 1 to 12.
Visiting from further afield? Imagine stepping off at Exeter station or airport and heading off in your convertible sports car. Load your bags, drop the roof, and you’re off. In no time, you’ll be sipping a warm or cool drink by a serene harbour or wandering through golden-hued lanes, embracing slow travel at its finest.
Here’s your checklist for an unforgettable autumn road trip:
1 – No roof, all charm
To fully breathe in the season’s sights, sounds, and smells – like the golden hues along the coastal lanes – you need the roof down. Drive Devon’s MX-5 is a classic convertible, easy to drop or put back up if a brisk autumn shower surprises you. No complicated electric roofs here, just pure, simple fun.
2 – Plenty of range
It’s a trusty petrol engine with plenty of miles to roam. Revel in the spirited purr as you wind through leafy lanes and rugged coasts, top down and heart full.
3 – Taming lane anxiety
Those narrow lanes with towering hedgerows can be intimidating, especially if you spot a tractor rounding the bend. No worries – the MX-5’s petite frame makes it a breeze to navigate Cornwall’s and Devon’s charming coastal roads, whether that’s the winding lanes near Polperro or the scenic cliffside drives around Bude.
4 – Picnic-ready boot
There’s space for your hamper, warm blankets, and maybe a change of clothes for a cosy overnight stay at one of the many fantastic South West 660 Partner venues.
5 – Pure driving joy
With its zippy little engine and rear-wheel drive, the MX-5 is as playful as ever – a modern classic without the hassle. Perfect for twisting roads and autumn adventures, whether it’s the serene lanes hugging the Camel Estuary or the leafy drives around Dartmouth.
6 – Picture-perfect
You want that perfect sunset shot – car parked overlooking the rugged cliffs at Tintagel or by the colourful fishing boats in Mevagissey. Our second-generation NB MX-5 blends classic beauty with modern charm effortlessly.
7 – Dependably reliable
A Mazda through and through, with straightforward controls and no tech headaches – ideal for both new and seasoned drivers.
8 – Comfort wrapped in sportiness
Cosy, supportive seats that keep you snug on those winding stretches, but soft enough to enjoy the journey.
Need some scenic car park inspiration for those pitstops?
1 – Dorset – Ringstead Bay Car Park (DT2 8NG)
A hidden gem with views over Weymouth Bay and the Jurassic Coast. Great for fossil hunting or a quiet beach walk.
2 – Devon – Start Point Car Park (TQ7 2ET)
A remote, cliff-top location with sweeping views of the South Devon coast. The drive down is twisty and narrow -just the kind of lane your MX-5 was made for.
3 – Cornwall – Cape Cornwall Car Park (TR19 7NN)
A rugged, lesser-known spot near St Just with panoramic views of the Atlantic and the iconic chimney stack. Perfect for sunset shots with your MX-5 silhouetted against the sea.
4 – Somerset – Bossington Car Park (TA24 8HQ)
Near Porlock, this car park sits at the edge of Exmoor and offers access to coastal paths with views over the Bristol Channel. The lanes here are narrow and tree-lined – perfect for a top-down cruise.
Drive Devon and the South West 660 is waiting for you. Now it’s over to you – the question is…. shiny silver or baby blue?
