The 2027 Mazda MX-5: how does the Japanese roadster drive and how much does it cost?

The Mazda MX-5 has been updated for the 2027 model year whilst remaining true to the ‘Joy of Driving’ – the non-negotiable essence of the Japanese brand and the starting point for all development work. This is not just another catchphrase concocted in a boardroom, but a genuine philosophy that encompasses not only pure performance, but also the car’s functionality, the quality of its handling and, above all, the feeling you get when driving an MX-5. A philosophy we experienced first-hand during our initial test drive on the roads of the Futa Pass, thanks to the linear throttle response, the precision of the steering, the controllable braking and the way the chassis conveys what is happening beneath the wheels.

Despite a project dating back to 2014, with the fourth generation hitting the market in 2015, the two-seater from Hiroshima has been refined where necessary. Lifting the bonnet reveals a series of updates to the 1.5 Skyactiv-G engine, which gains 4 cv and 3 Nm, rising to 136 cv at 7,000 rpm and 155 Nm at 4,500 rpm. These figures may seem marginal, but they translate into a more linear power delivery without the dips experienced in the past. There is also a revised engine note, thanks to the ISE tuning system which transmits the sound of the intake directly into the cabin. Combined fuel consumption, according to the WLTP cycle, has also improved, now standing at 16.4 km/l compared to 16.1 km/l previously, with CO₂ emissions of 139 g/km. Completing the MX-5’s evolution are advanced safety technologies, designed to support the driver without interfering with driving pleasure. For the first time, the Driver Attention Alert (DAA), the driver attention monitoring system, is available as standard on all trim levels, offering an additional level of driving support.

The 2027 model year introduces the Yakudo trim level, which is based on the Homura and features Bilstein sports shock absorbers, a front anti-roll bar, the same 16-inch forged Rays wheels but with a silver soft top, silver Brembo brake calipers, Alcantara trim on the dashboard and door panels, heated Recaro seats, and bespoke floor mats with an illuminated logo and contrasting stitching.

On the road, all this translates into a two-seater that’s perfect for relaxed open-top cruising, whilst at the same time being incredibly fun and responsive when you pick up the pace, thanks to a combination of ‘steering, suspension, six-speed gearbox, chassis and brakes’ designed to deliver driving pleasure without requiring absurd amounts of power. Although the chassis can easily handle significantly higher power outputs, the current set-up makes it perfect for enjoying the drive in complete safety.

How much does it cost to drive the revamped Mazda MX-5? Prices start at €33,400 for the Prime-Line, €36,350 for the Exclusive-Line, €37,150 for the Kazari, €39,950 for the Homura and €40,750 for the Yakudo; the RF version with a retractable hardtop costs an additional €2,500 across the entire range. Among the new features is the Zinc Green colour, which is already available to order on all versions of the Mazda MX-5, with the first cars due to arrive at dealerships from January 2027. The new colour brings green back into the roadster’s colour palette after twenty years, with a highly evocative shade that pays homage to the MX-5’s history.