Mazda MX-5 refresh delivers more power and improved safety
Iconic Japanese sports car is enhanced for the 2019 model year, with a boost in power and improved safety technology on higher trim levels
Mazda has confirmed a more powerful, yet even safer, version of its iconic MX-5 is heading to the UK.
Although still in its fourth generation, the refresh for the 2019 model year brings more safety technology to the options list and increases power for both the 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre engine variants.
Starting with that increased performance, 2.0-litre versions of both the soft-top and RF hard-top MX-5 get a significant uplift. The engine now develops 181bhp and 205Nm of torque — up from 158bhp and 200Nm.
In soft-top form with a manual gearbox, the 0-60mph sprint time is improved by 0.8 seconds — and is now able to be completed in 6.5 seconds.
Not only is the new MX-5 more powerful, but a little eco-friendlier, too. The addition of stop-start technology sees CO2 emissions reduced by 5g/km on manual models, taking the figure down to 156g/km.
As for the 1.5-litre engine, the improvement is relatively minor in comparison. Power is up to 130bhp from 129bhp, while torque sees a 2Nm rise to 152Nm.
Buyers opting for a Sport Nav+ model or higher benefit from improved safety technology, too. Automatic emergency braking makes its debut on the MX-5, while no-cost extras include lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition and driver attention alert.
A new range-topping trim has been introduced, too. GT Sport Nav+ gets all of the safety tech, along with adaptive LED headlights, a reversing camera and blind spot monitoring.
Don’t expect a radical design change. In fact, this updated Mazda MX-5 is visually identical to the current car — albeit with new 16- and 17-inch alloy wheel designs available.
The 2019 Mazda MX-5 will go on sale from September 1, with prices starting at £18,995.
