Mazda MX-5 gets refreshed

MANILA: Mazda Philippines has updated its MX-5 — receiving a myriad of upgrades that further improved handling and connectivity.

The latest iteration is offered in two body styles and seven variations: five soft top and two retractable fastback (RF) — with seven color options to choose from(Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Deep Crystal Blue, Zircon Sand, and Jet Black as well as the newly added Aero Gray).

Its illumination system features a revised lighting signature for the head- and tail lamps. Rounding off the exterior changes are the 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a diamond cut or black metallic finish.

Inside, the new Mazda MX-5 is fitted with a 4.6-inch LCD display, 8.8-inch infotainment screen (with slimmer bezels), and a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The Japanese automaker’s local distributor said that the latest-generation Mazda Connect system found in the MX-5 has an improved smartphone connectivity with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, as well as dual USB type-C ports — matching the already-available nine-speaker Bose sound system, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and available Nappa Leather seats.

Since the offering is a mid-cycle refresh, the new Mazda MX-5 is still powered by naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine that delivers up to 181 horsepower and 205 Newton-meters of torque. Such a powertrain is mated to a Skyactiv-Drive six-speed gearbox (in manual or automatic version). The engine’s sound is drawn directly into the interior from the engine resulting in a more stirring audible experience.

All the MX-5 trims feature a revised electric power steering system leading to steering rack friction — in addition to the Kinematic Posture Control that mimics the behavior of more complex and heavier adaptive dampers and a light braking force to the inner rear wheel as the steering wheel is turned into a corner to pull the vehicle’s body down and suppress body roll.

The manual-gearbox-fitted Mazda MX-5 trims were equipped with two new handling-related technologies on top of the standard front strut bar and Bilstein shock absorbers: dynamic stability control with track mode (DSC-Track) and asymmetric limited slip differential (A-LSD).

DSC-Track limits the operation of the stability control system — intervening only when it detects a potentially hazardous spin that the driver is unable to control. The new functionality does not come with any significant weight penalty as it uses a unique control software along with a new ABS hydraulic unit.

Meanwhile, A-LSD adds a cam mechanism to the standard conical clutch LSD that is lightweight, compact, and highly-durable — with the cam angle is set differently for the deceleration side and acceleration side, achieving optimal limiting force of slip during both processes.

It also comes with a recalibrated accelerator pedal and the cruise control that has become a standard amenity across all variants.

Further, the Mazda MX-5 is also outfitted with the existing i-Activesense safety and driver assist technologies added with smart brake support-front, smart brake support-rear, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert with rear cross brake support, and driver attention alert. Adaptive LED headlights, lane departure warning, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera remain standard.

Mazda Philippines shared that the MX-5 has two distinct trim packages: the black fabric soft top and body-colored RF roof comes with a black leather interior, 17-inch diamond cut aluminum alloy wheels, and body-colored side mirrors, while the tan fabric soft top and black RF roof comes with a tan Nappa Leather interior, 17-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels, and gloss black side mirrors.

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 comes with the following prices:

• 2.0L MT Miata Cup 23rd Anniversary Edition: P2.23 million
• 2.0L MT Black Top Black Leather: P2.3 million
• 2.0L AT Black Top Black Leather: P2.35 million
• 2.0L MT Tan Top Tan Nappa Leather: P2.4 million
• 2.0L AT Tan Top Tan Nappa Leather: P2.45 million
• 2.0L AT RF Black Leather: P2.55 million
• 2.0L AT RF Tan Nappa Leather: P2.6 million

A special, limited-edition MX-5 Miata Cup 23rd Anniversary Edition is also available. This 23-unit run uniquely developed by Mazda Japan for the Philippine market in honor of the 23rd Anniversary of the Miata Cup comes with a bespoke racing livery designed by local artist Jaykee Evangelista and is inspired by classic motorsports liveries.

“The Mazda MX-5 is an unmistakable icon and for 35 years, it has been the go-to option for enthusiasts who want a thrilling drive no matter the destination. These new updates for 2024 not only make it the ideal first sports car, but expand its already extensive capabilities to make it even more fun on the track and even better on the road,” Mazda Philippines President Steven Tan said.

“It is known around the world as a formidable and reliable racing platform, but thanks to its new updates, it has also become a more comprehensive package. It gains Mazda’s latest connectivity and safety enhancements, making it a complete package not just dynamically, but technologically, as well.”

Photos from Mazda Philippines

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