Skip advert
Advertisement

Mazda MX-5 updated for Tokyo Motor Show

Revised Mazda MX-5 roadster has been unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, with more kit and handling upgrades

Mazda has presented an updated version of its fourth-generation MX-5 sports car with revisions made to the standard roadster and the RF fastback.

The updates are an evolution of the Mk4 MX-5, which launched back in 2015. The new model is said to feature more agile handling, a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a slightly tweaked exterior.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Best convertibles 2017

The rear suspension has been fine-tuned along with revised power steering, which Mazda says further enhances the already famed ‘jinba-ittai’ driving experience. This philosophy has been ingrained in the MX-5’s DNA since its inception in 1989.

Mazda will offer the 2018 MX-5 with more colour choices, including a new metallic red and a grey shade added to the existing paint options. Buyers will be able to opt for an Auburn leather interior as well as a dark cherry roof canopy, though it’s not clear whether or not these will be available on European cars.

Also announced alongside the roadster is the revised Mazda MX-5 RF folding hardtop model. The Retractable Fastback debuted last year and is already getting a fresh update.

Two-tone colours for the roof are now available on the RF along with the roadster’s red metallic paint option. The RF serves as a bridge between the soft-top roadster and the solid-roof coupe. Adaptive LED lights are also featured on both models to further enhance safety on the roads.

Both editions feature the same engine options as before, with customers able to choose between the 129bhp 1.5-litre and 158bhp 2.0-litre direct injection four-pots. It’s not clear when the tweaks will replicate on UK cars, but we can feasibly expect an on-sale date in the spring of 2018.

Will you be tempted by the updates on the MX-5 and MX-5 RF? Let us know in the comments...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Best cars for road trips - our top models for the ultimate driving adventure
Best cars for road trips - header image

Best cars for road trips - our top models for the ultimate driving adventure

Our experts pick their ideal road trip cars with everything from super-luxury saloons to high-powered supercars
Best cars & vans
14 May 2025
Mazda MX-5 goes electric: the iconic roadster's radical future
Mazda MX-5 EV exclusive image - front

Mazda MX-5 goes electric: the iconic roadster's radical future

The next Mazda MX-5 roadster is set to be offered as a pure EV, and our exclusive images preview how it could look
News
10 May 2025
Best convertible cars and cabriolets to buy 2025
Best convertibles 2025 - header

Best convertible cars and cabriolets to buy 2025

Love the feeling of the wind in your hair while driving? These are the cars for you
Best cars & vans
28 Apr 2025
Three-car garage: Skoda Enyaq, Renault Megane R.S. and Mazda MX-5 for under £60,000
Three-car garage for £60,000

Three-car garage: Skoda Enyaq, Renault Megane R.S. and Mazda MX-5 for under £60,000

With a family EV, radical hot hatch and nippy roadster, this driveway collection can provide wheels for any occasion
Features
6 Apr 2025

Most Popular

Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots
Opinion - Kia

Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots

Mike Rutherford thinks new cars are simply too expensive, but some manufacturers are starting to do something about it
Opinion
19 May 2025
Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy
Best electric cars header

Best electric cars 2025: the top 10 best EVs you can buy

Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle? Here are the EVs that should be on your shortlist, and why…
Best cars & vans
14 May 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Sacre bleu! The Renault 5 keeps getting cheaper

The modern-day Super Cinq comes with a super price. It’s our Deal of the Day for 14 May
News
14 May 2025