Mazda has revealed another facelift for its MX-5 sports car, with the first examples of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 due to reach Australian showrooms in the first quarter of 2024. While not a huge update, the 2024 version of the MX-5 introduces subtle exterior styling changes, new standard equipment and a new central touchscreen for a more modern feel. Predictably, prices have risen up to $3,220 to account for the new features with the entry level MX-5 Roadster now priced from $41,370 plus on-road costs.
Summing up the comprehensive changes, Vinesh Bhindi, Managing Director for Mazda Australia, commented: “The Mazda MX-5 is an unmistakable icon. For more than 34 years, it’s been the go-to option for keen enthusiasts who want to delight in a thrilling drive no matter the destination, and these new updates further expand its already extensive repertoire to make it even more fun on track and more responsive on the road.
“It may be our most analogue-feeling car when it comes to dynamics, but the 2024 MX-5 also brings with it the latest connectivity and safety updates, ensuring the overall package is also at the cutting edge technologically.”
On the outside of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 are new LED front and rear lighting units, as well as new 17-inch alloy wheels and a new ‘Aero Grey’ exterior colour.
Mechanically, the MX-5 has been upgraded through a number of new features: a new asymmetric limited-slip differential, a revised electric power steering rack for a more natural feel, a sharper throttle for manual models and, for the GT RS, a new looser track mode for the stability control.
The interior of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 has received smaller updates, with the headline change being the fitment of a new 8.8-inch infotainment system that features the newer Mazda Connect software, which replaces the smaller 7.0-inch screen that has been used in the MX-5 since it was released in 2016. We expect the screen to add wireless Android Auto to the wireless Apple CarPlay it currently features.
Other changes to the interior include a new light interior option for the MX-5 RF GT Black Roof model – Mazda calls it tan but it’s more beige-like than that – and new leather trim on the centre console.
The company’s new connected services will also launch with the MX-5, which can connect the vehicle to the emergency services to dispatch an ambulance in case of an accident and allow vehicle status to be checked via a smartphone app. We expect the connected services to spread across the range in 2024.
There’s no mention of any engine upgrades to the 2024 Mazda MX-5, which is expected to carry over the 135kW/205Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine from the current model. According to Mazda, its engine noise is now pumped directly into the cabin. Both six-speed manual and $1,500-optional six-speed automatic transmissions are available, though Mazda Australia has killed the entry-level automatic so that the cheapest MX-5 auto (the GT Roadster) is now priced from $49,990 +ORC.
2024 Mazda MX-5 pricing (plus on-road costs):
- MX-5 Roadster manual – $41,370 (+$2,310)
- MX-5 RF manual – $46,100 (+$2,730)
- MX-5 Roadster GT manual – $48,490 (+$2,800)
- MX-5 Roadster GT auto – $49,990 (+$2,300)
- MX-5 RF GT manual – $52,990 (+$3,220)
- MX-5 RF GT auto – $54,490 (+$2,720)
- MX-5 RF GT Black Roof and Tan Leather auto – $55,510 (+$2,720)
- MX-5 Roadster GT RS manual – $51,490 (+$2,800)
- MX-5 RF GT RS manual – $55,990 (+$3,220)
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 will go on sale in Australia in the first quarter of 2024. Stay tuned to DiscoverAuto for the latest automotive news and reviews.
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