MX-5 Given a Facelift

Mazda definitely has been busy with the MX-5 all of a sudden. Just yesterday, the famed nameplate received an update in Japan; and it’s perhaps because of two factors: a) they’re drumming up attention to the name, which needs to move to the next generation – as do Alfa Romeo who will base their next Spider on the MX-5; and b) it’s their (weak) response to the BRZ/GT86 from the Subaru/Toyota cooperation. If it’s the former, than it’s good for all enthusiasts but if it’s the latter then it’s a weak response.

The refreshed MX-5 concentrates more on exterior changes. Basically, they’re meant to make the roadster appear more aggressive, and particularly to keep a greater distinction between the soft-top to the variant with the retractable hard-top (RHT).

The detail of changes includes a larger front grille, newly designed front fog lamp bezel, new front chin spoiler and a new body colour. In addition, colour for the front light bezel, steering wheel bezel, inner door handle and seatback bar garnish are in different colours between the RHT and soft-top variants.

For the interior, the leather seats have a new tan colour with a combination Alcantara and black leather seat covers also available. In order to keep weight down, uncompromising attention was paid to weight reduction in the design of new parts including the re-designed front bumper, the active bonnet (an new pedestrian protection system), the new 17 inch aluminium (for the RHT model) wheels and the internal wiring.

The 2 litre MZR engine is mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed Activematic auto, with all variants being a RWD. While no major changes were given, fine adjustments were applied to the throttle management to make the car more responsive as it comes out of corners (only for the manual box’ models). The brake boosters were also tweaked which now makes manipulation of the front : rear manipulation easier.

In Japan, the refreshed MX-5 variants will cost between 2.3 million Yen to 2.92 million Yen.