Mazda has today unveiled the updated MX-5 sports car ahead of the 2019 model year, with the biggest update being something Mazda MX-5 fans have been begging for – more power! The updates apply to both the soft-top roadster and hard-top convertible RF models.
The 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine has been tuned and refined for higher levels of performance, better economy and emissions, and acoustic improvements – the latter being a previous weak point of an all-round impressive driving experience. The changes to the Mazda MX-5’s engine now make it Euro 6d compliant, as well as compliant with the new WLTP/RDE driving tests that are set to replace NEDC economy tests.
But the update that will appease fans most is that the 2.0-litre 4-pot now revs higher – from 6800r/min to 7500r/min, generating more power in the process. Power outputs have increased from 118kW to 135kW @ 7000r/min, whilst torque takes a 5Nm bump from 200Nm to 205Nm. Acoustic tuning has improved the sound of the engine and exhaust note, whilst acceleration and responsiveness has also allegedly been improved – though no figures have been supplied to confirm this.
Other improvements to the Mazda MX-5 include increased safety features, including 5 new additions to the i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite. Autonomous forward braking, reverse brake assist, driver attention alert, traffic sign recognition, and a reverse camera have all been added to improve the MX-5’s offering.
European sales of the updated model are expected from August 2018 onwards. We’ve reached out to Mazda Southern Africa for confirmation as to when we can expect the updated model on local shores.
