New Mazda MX-5 at Tokyo Motor Show: Everything We Know So Far
Mazda has given its beloved two-seat roadster, the MX-5, a refresh, claiming that it’s now better than ever. The Mazda MX-5 holds a special place not only in the sports car world but in the entire automotive industry. Thus, it’s no surprise that Mazda has played it safe with only minor updates since its launch in 2015. However, next year will bring the most significant changes to the MX-5 yet.
On the exterior, the current MX-5 receives its first set of aesthetic updates. It now features new LED headlights with daytime running lights, and the rear lights have undergone a redesign. Additionally, Mazda has added Aero Grey to the list of available exterior paint colors.
Inside the cabin, there’s a notable upgrade with a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen, replacing the old seven-inch display that was operated solely by the rotary dial on the center console. Apple CarPlay connectivity remains, but now there’s a newer built-in infotainment system. Mazda has also included a frameless rear-view mirror and USB-C charging ports for added convenience.
The fourth-generation ‘ND’ MX-5 has been a consistent winner at the Auto Express New Car Awards, mainly due to its outstanding driving dynamics. Fortunately, Mazda has made only slight adjustments to the MX-5’s mechanical components for 2024.
All models now come equipped with a ‘Dynamic Stability Control’ track driving mode that Mazda claims won’t intervene “until a later parameter,” aiming to provide a “more dynamic yet secure driving experience, especially for first-time track drivers.” The accelerator has also been refined to deliver sharper throttle response, and the electric power steering system has been tweaked to offer a more natural feel.
The lineup of engines remains unchanged. The base model is powered by a 97kW 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with a 2.0-liter unit above it producing 135kW. The Prime-Line trim is paired with the 1.5-liter engine, while the Exclusive-Line is offered with either the 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter engines. The range-topping Homura model exclusively comes with the 2.0-liter engine.
The 2.0-liter version now benefits from a front strut brace, limited-slip differential, and Bilstein dampers. The differential has been revised for the 2024 models to enhance cornering stability and better match the engine’s output.
This updated MX-5 made its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show, with pricing and delivery details yet to be announced.
| Mazda MX-5 2024 Refresh |
|---|
| Overview |
| – Beloved two-seat roadster |
| – Considered an icon in the sports car world |
| – Minor updates since its 2015 launch |
| – Significant changes coming in 2024 |
| Exterior Updates |
| – New LED headlights with daytime running lights |
| – Redesigned rear lights |
| – Added Aero Grey to exterior paint color options |
| Interior Improvements |
| – Larger 8.8-inch touchscreen replacing the old 7-inch display |
| – Apple CarPlay connectivity remains |
| – New built-in infotainment system |
| – Frameless rear-view mirror |
| – USB-C charging ports |
| Driving Dynamics |
| – ‘Dynamic Stability Control’ track driving mode for more dynamic and secure experience |
| – Refined accelerator for sharper throttle response |
| – Tweaked electric power steering for a more natural feel |
| Engine Options |
| – Base model: 97kW 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine |
| – Upper model: 135kW 2.0-liter engine |
| – Prime-Line trim with the 1.5-liter engine |
| – Exclusive-Line offered with both 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter engines |
| – Range-topping Homura exclusively with the 2.0-liter engine |
| 2.0-liter Upgrades |
| – Front strut brace, limited-slip differential, and Bilstein dampers |
| – Revised differential for enhanced cornering stability and engine output alignment |
| Debut and Details |
| – Unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show |
| – Pricing and delivery details yet to be announced |
