Facelifted 2024 Mazda MX-5 Adds More Driving Fun, Improved Tech

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 has just been revealed, just months after spy shots of prototypes of the popular roadster were spotted at the Nurburgring undergoing testing. As this could probably be the last major update for the MX-5 before the next-generation model is expected to come out in 2025, here’s how Mazda is keeping the current MX-5 the benchmark in emotional driving fun.

From the outside, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 comes with new LED headlights that now feature integrated LED daytime running lights as opposed to having separate units in the lower part of the front bumper. Likewise, the front bumper has been slightly redesigned since it no longer contains those said daytime running lights. In addition, you’ll also notice a radar sensor hidden at the lower air intake, which we’ll be getting to in a moment. At the back, the LED taillights have a revised design that adds more depth to the lighting details. Topping it all are new alloy wheel designs, depending on the variant, as well as a new Aero Gray paint that originally debuted in the facelifted Mazda 2.

Inside, the new MX-5 benefits from the latest version of the Mazda Connect infotainment system, wherein the screen size has now grown to 8.8 inches as well as using the same software found in cars like the new CX-60 and CX-90. The material and upholstery choices have also been revised for the 2024 model year, such as tan Nappa Leather, as well as synthetic leather choices. As ever, features like a Bose sound system can be equipped, while new for 2024 is the addition of Mazda Radar Cruise Control, which is why there’s now a radar sensor at the MX-5’s front bumper.

Also new for 2024 are improved engines. The 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine that’s available in Japan now produces 133 horsepower (+4 hp), while the rest of the world’s 2.0-liter still produces 181 horses, but new software has improved the engine’s throttle response. All of that power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.

Mazda also managed to improve the MX-5’s driving dynamics even further with the addition of a new asymmetric limited-slip differential, though you can only get this if you get the manual. in addition, there’s a new DCT-Track mode that basically makes the Dynamic Stability Control intervene less, thus making you more involved in the driving experience. Steering upgrades also help in making the 2024 MX-5 feel more connected to the driver. As a refresher, the MX-5 got a new suspension with the new Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) technology that builds upon Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control torque vectoring feature.

With all of these upgrades, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 continues to further improve upon the classic sports car recipe amid the world’s shifting towards electric vehicles (EVs). By doing so, the MX-5 remains to be one of the purest sports cars you cold buy right now. The new MX-5 will hit Japanese showrooms in early 2024, while a Philippine launch could happen a little later.