Sports

Mazda MX-5 2024: how it has changed, how it goes and what the future will hold for the legendary Miata. Two-litre engine goodbye

The world's best-selling two-seater sports car gets an upgrade with Adas and on-board technology. In Europe, the 184-horsepower 2.0 engine will no longer be available, but only the 132-horsepower 1.5. Improved suspension, steering and driving feel

14 June 2024

Mazda MX-5 2024: come è cambiata

7' min read

Four generations, 35 years, 1,250,000 units sold. These are the numbers of the Mazda MX-5, a true icon, one of the last sports cars, two seats that couldn't be more dry, but affordable and, always, great fun to drive. A model, proudly built in Hiroshima that boasts legions of enthusiasts and fans, a record-breaking car for oceanic rallies that testifies to and still manages to convey the love for the car and the desire to drive under the open sky, in to down with the canvas roof down (but the well-known RF version also has a folding sheet metal roof).

The Miata, so called because of the name, in some markets, of the first series, the one christened NA, has recently been updated in its fourth generation, the ND, launched in 2015/16 with a model year 2024 that does not involve any major aesthetic changes (no sheet metal has been altered as well as the style of the front end, which does however receive full LED light clusters with an unprecedented light signature that also applies to the direction indicators). Gone are the DLR daytime running lights (too bad!) and legal Ads such as automatic emergency braking and lane assist are introduced. Also updated is the infotainment system (at last) and mechanically there are improvements on steering, suspension and the availability of the self-locking differential with controlled slip.

Mazda MX-5 ND3, 2024

Small but important news for the 'Miatisti' public, who will be disappointed by a decision by Mazda: due to the costs of adaptation to Euro6e regulations, the two-litre 184 hp petrol engine will no longer be offered in Europe (while stocks last) and there will only be the famous, and popular, 132 hp 1.5. And this is where Mazda's marketing will have to work hard to sustain the product, even while waiting to see what will happen next. Indeed, the Japanese car's vast fan community is wondering whether there will be a fifth generation and how electrified it will be. With the Iconic Sp concept, Mazda gave a glimpse of a future electric model with an extended rotary range. It certainly seems unlikely that a possible next series will be as small and light as the current one: space is needed for the batteries, costs will have to be cut by sharing a platform with Toyota's allies, who in turn are partners with BMW, and furthermore Mazda has embarked on a path towards premium looks with the latest CX-70 and CX-80 suvs. And this could also perhaps lead to a name change. What if the future sports car from Hiroshima was called the MX-50, following the naming syntax of the latest models with an added Zero? We will only find out by living as Lucio Battisti used to say. And if we want to switch to Sì Viaggiare, let's go back to the MX-5 2024, where the small Japanese car offers a technological upgrade that enhances the driving experience.

The MX-5 2024 has also been enhanced with a new asymmetric limited slip differential (Asymmetric LSD, a lysergic name that seems to ensure real 'trips') and a DSC-Track driving mode, optimised for track use. The light and compact LSD cone-clutch differential improves cornering stability by varying the slip-limiting force in response to vehicle acceleration and deceleration. The 184 hp Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine offers responsive response and a maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp at 7,000 rpm, with maximum torque of 205 Nm at 4,000 rpm. This unit will unfortunately no longer be available, so upgrades such as a controlled slip differential and DSC Track could possibly be introduced on the 1.5-litre

Mazda MX-5 2024, design and interior

The Mazda MX-5 2024 features a new exterior colour, Aero Grey Metallic, replacing Platinum Quartz. The soft top of the Kazari roadster version, which opens and closes instantly with a simple gesture, is now available in beige, adding a touch of class. The retractable hard-top (RF) version combines the pleasure of open-air driving with the safety and comfort of a fixed, three-part hard-top that can be opened or closed in just 13 seconds, even on the move, if you are travelling at less than 10 km/h.

Inside, the MX-5 2024 features an 8.8-inch central display, which is wirelessly compatible with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, as well as two USB-C sockets. The instrument cluster has been updated with a newly shaped pointer and clearer characters. For those looking for a superior audio experience, there is a nine-speaker Bose system, also integrated into the headrests, and a Mazda SD navigation system offering 3D map displays.

The Exclusive-line version also features an auto-switching rear-view mirror with a new inverted trapezoid shape, without a frame, to improve visibility. The centre console is upholstered in synthetic leather, adding a touch of elegance.

The seats on the MX-5 2024 are now made of 'Leganu' faux leather, which reduces slippage and makes it easier to maintain balance during sportier driving. Externally, the rear light clusters and turn indicators have been upgraded with LED bulbs. Also new are the wheels mounted on 17-inch rims.

Mazda MX-5 2024, engines

To further improve efficiency, the Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine features i-Eloop, a braking energy recovery system, and the i-stop shutdown system. The range also includes the Skyactiv-G 1.5 engine, which delivers 97 kW/132 hp at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 152 Nm at 4,500 rpm.

Mazda MX-5 2024, safety and driver assistance systems

The MX-5 2024 is equipped with numerous driver assistance systems, even in the basic Prime-line version. Among them, the Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) help keep the car in its lane, while Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) ensures compliance with speed limits. Starting with the Exclusive-line trim, the MX-5 2024 includes a parking assist system (RCTA) that alerts you to oncoming traffic, and a warning of approaching traffic when getting out of the vehicle. The advanced lane change assistant (BSM Plus) monitors blind spots, while the new secondary collision mitigation system brings the car to a stop after a collision, reducing damage from further impacts.

The Emergency Brake Assist (SBS) system detects vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians, activating automatic braking if necessary. SBS-RC (Smart Brake Support Rear Crossing) prevents collisions when reversing with vehicles approaching from any direction at speeds between 0 and 15 km/h. Traffic sign recognition (TSR) and driver fatigue warning (DAA) further enhance safety, while the rear camera, with high-resolution images, ensures excellent visibility.

The MX-5 2024's active bonnet, improved over previous generations, lifts in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, creating a deformation zone that reduces the risk of serious head injuries.

The MX-5 2024 range offers three trim levels: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura. The latter performance-oriented trim includes sporty features such as the Brembo braking system, Recaro seats and black mirror caps. Homura versions with the 184 hp Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine also include Bilstein dampers, a strut bar and BBS forged alloy wheels.

Mazda MX-5 ND 2024, the test

On the road, among the few crowded and beautiful roads in Croatia, the MX-5 powered by the 1.5-litre Skyactiv proves to be fun and super pleasant to drive. The set-up and feel do not change compared to the variants that preceded it from 2016, but there is noticeable overall refinement work. The steering is even better: direct and precise. The little spider is even more stable and with a more sincere set-up. When driven without unnecessary exaggeration in search of performance that does not belong to it, the Japanese roadster proves to be a blade on the asphalt. The engine pushes well and is progressive. It is obviously not a lightning bolt of war or a dispenser of adrenalin, but it does bring a smile to the driver's face as per the mission inherent in the DNA of a model built around the concept of Jinba Ittai, the integration of man-machine, rider and horse of Japanese culture reinterpreted by Mazda.

On board, the new infotainment system stands out. Lower and thinner, it boasts an 8.3-inch screen as opposed to the old 7-inch one. It changes the picture mat and now the screen, unfortunately without touch while driving, is modern, with more modern graphics. There's Android Auto and wireless CarPaly for smartphone integration and USB C ports. There remains the useless proprietary navigation system with SD card, but this is inserted in a slot that is now well made.

Obviously, the MX-5 ND's limitations remain: little space on board, no convenient storage compartments, but these are flaws that mysatistas willingly accept because in the end the MX-5 is made to give thrills and not to get from A to B. Here, fortunately, we remain in the realm of cars, passion and love of driving. Mobility we can leave to the washing machine-sized cars.

Mazda MX-5 2024, versions and prices

Mazda's new roadster is offered in two versions, Soft Top and RF (Retractable Fastback) with an electrically operated hardtop. For both, as mentioned, there are three or two trim options depending on the engine chosen: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura. The Soft Top with 1.5L Skyactiv G engine starts at a price of 32,400 euro for the Prime-Line trim. It rises to 35,350 for the Exclusive-Line up to 38,650 euros for the Homura version. The Soft Top with the 2.0L Skyactiv G engine is offered in Exclusive-Line and Homura trim, which can be purchased for 37,350 euros and 41,250 euros respectively.

The RF version has the same engines. In this case the model with the 1.5L Skyactiv G engine in Prime-Line trim costs 34,900 euros. The Exclusive-Line goes to 37,850 euro, while 41,150 euro must be budgeted for the top-of-the-range Homura.

Finally, the Mazda MX-5 2024 RF with 2-litre Skyactiv G engine will be on sale in Exclusive-Live trim at €39,820 and in Homura trim at €43,750. For these last two versions, Mazda specifies that they will be available while stocks last.