After eight years since the fourth-generation MX-5 (ND) debuted, Mazda finally decided to give it a much-needed refresh. It was about time that this little and cute roadster received some attention. Here's what's new!
Despite its affordable price tag, the Miata is probably one of the world's most well-known sports cars. If what you're looking for is open-air fun, decent gas mileage, and rear-wheel drive, the MX-5 must be at the top of your list. It's just great for what it is, even though the cute roadster doesn't boast massive power numbers, incredible technologies, and who knows what else people like these days.
Sadly, this refresh doesn't debut modern pop-up headlights. Mazda didn't want to overengineer the facelifted Miata like Volvo did with the EX90. So, the NA generation will retain that special feature and, consequently, its place in enthusiasts' hearts.
But there are reasons to be happy about the updated MX-5. The 2024 model-year roadster comes with redesigned LED headlights and taillights. They don't stray too far from the original look, but the novelties are just enough to set the new model apart from the existing car. For example, daytime-running lights (DRLs) are incorporated into the headlamp housing, enhancing the MX-5's superficial aggressivity.
The rearview mirror was one gripe I had with the roadster when I used it for a lengthy trip. It just was too big. It felt out of place, like an afterthought. Fortunately, the brand introduced a new design. The frameless appearance of the new rearview mirrors means it occupies less space, and you get to experience improved visibility.
Photo: Mazda
Mazda also added a new infotainment screen similar to that found in the CX-5 or the Mazda 3. The only difference is the size – it measures 8.8 inches instead of 10.3 inches. The crisp graphics, the better internals, the wireless Apple CarPlay, and the touch capability are all there.
The Japanese automaker added a slightly changed, well-lit driver's instrument cluster and USB-C ports.
The 2024 MX-5 comes with a slightly different DSC tune for the Track Mode. It allows more slip and intervenes later, thus securing the driver's right to have some good ol' fun outside public roads.
A new, lightweight, and more compact cam mechanism has been added to the conical clutch, which translates into a new limited slip differential that stabilizes the car's turn-in behavior. It allows the vehicle's wheel to rotate at different speeds by prioritizing the wheel with the most traction and minimizing liftoff oversteer. This upgrade is available only for the units equipped with the 2.0-liter engine.
Mazda says it also played around with the acceleration, which now should provide an improved, more accurate response. Similarly, steering should feel a tad bit lighter because rack friction has been reduced.
The MX-5 is particularly popular in the UK, so the Japanese brand will make sure it arrives in March 2024 with a soft- (Roadster) and hard-top (RF) in the following trims:
Prime-Line – 1.5-liter engine;
Exclusive Line – 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter engines;
Homura – 2.0-liter engine.
The 1.5-liter powerplant pumps out 130 hp (132 ps), while the 2.0-liter mechanic beating heart has an output of 181 hp (184 ps).
Finally, the roadster also received a couple of upgrades in the driver-assistance systems department. It'll have lane-keeping and intelligent speed assistance on all trims, while Traffic Sign Recognition will be an option on more affordable versions.
Pricing for the UK market has not been disclosed when writing.
Car shows on TV and his father's Fiat Tempra may have been Florin's early influences, but nowadays he favors different things, like the power of an F-150 Raptor. He'll never be able to ignore the shape of a Ferrari though, especially a yellow one. Full profile
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