2019 Mazda MX-5 - official!
First pics and details from Mazda on the new MX-5, plus a launch date - hurry up August!
While the surprise of a new MX-5 has been dulled somewhat with the car already in Japan, it's still nice to receive confirmation from Mazda of a faster, smarter, more dynamic roadster. This is no simple facelift, either: Mazda says it is "refining the joy of open-top motoring and enhancing the inimitable thrill of the Jinba Ittai driving experience."
The most significant change is as discussed in that Japanese drive, the 2.0-litre engine now boasting 184hp at 7,000rpm and redlining at 7,500. Both 1.5- and 2.0-litre now comply with the WLTP/RDE test cycle (and Euro 6d Temp), while it's also claimed that the engines "benefit from refined acceleration control" to create even better throttle response.
Elsewhere the focus is on safety for this updated MX-5, with five new 'i-Activsense' technologies - as Mazda calls them - introduced on the car for the first time. There's Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Smart City Brake Support (Reverse), Driver Attention Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition System and a, er, Rear View Camera. Not sure the last one is all that significant, but then if it makes an MX-5 cheaper to insure (as many of these technologies tend to), then it seems churlish to complain.
Finally, Mazda has confirmed that both the 16- and 17-inch wheels are now offered with a darker paint finish, and that the brown roof option will make it to Europe. However, that is dependent on spec and market, so we can't be absolutely sure for the UK just yet.
Should you want an MX-5 that's "more exciting and satisfying to drive than ever before" - and, let's face it, why wouldn't you? - then Mazda says the car goes on sale throughout Europe from August. As soon as there's news on UK prices and spec, you'll be the first to know!
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