Check out the new-for-2024 Mazda MX-5

What do we know, eh? Having proudly proclaimed just at the weekend how good the current MX-5 still looks after so long on sale, Mazda has introduced the first exterior design change since the ND’s 2015 launch. Never listen to journalists talk about design. Or style. Or fashion…

The changes for this 2024 refresh include a new LED headlight that now incorporates the DRLs (where they used to sit separately) and a redesign for the rear lights. So it’s hardly a transformation – this is still a great-looking sports car. Even if you go for the boring new Aero Grey paint.

As with most MX-5 updates, the significant stuff is under the skin. The 2.0-litre models now get an Asymmetric limited-slip diff, which introduces a cam mechanism to the conical clutch, and is probably best explained by Mazda: ‘The cam angle is set differently for the deceleration and acceleration side, thereby achieving optimal limiting force of slip during both actions. Strengthening the slip limiting force when the unloaded rear wheel is lightened during cornering enhances stability’. But it’s also about purity, balance, connection, Jinba Ittai, all the good MX-5 stuff. Obviously, we’ll have to try an MX-5 that should make skidding simpler as soon as possible. 

The more expensive models (Exclusive-Line and Homura) with a DSC track mode now benefit from later intervention ‘to deliver a more dynamic, yet secure, drive experience with first-time track drivers in mind’. Good old Mazda – nice to see one company still thinking of the enthusiast. The revisions don’t stop there, either. The throttle has been tweaked for more accurate response, and the same for the steering; there’s now said to be less friction in the rack. It sort of sounds like the infinitesimal changes applied to the GT-R towards the end of its life, which is no bad thing; that was a Japanese icon unlike anything else that continued getting ever so slightly better with constant evolution. Here’s hoping for more of the same from the MX-5. 

Inside, the 2024 model gets USB-C charging, a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen and ‘more advanced’ MZ Connect infotainment. Again, it was an element of the MX-5 that didn’t need a great deal of work. Apart from the fact it was a bit of a tight squeeze, of course, and still will be – but 1,000kg roadsters must come with some compromise somewhere…

There will be eight versions of this latest car available, with four convertibles and four RFs. Prime-Line sounds like it’s a supermarket own brand sports car, and is only available with the 132hp 1.5-litre. Exclusive-Line is offered with the 1.5 and the 184hp 2.0-litre, while Homura is 2.0 only. Mazda has sold more than 25,000 NDs in the UK so far (of 135,000 total MX-5s), so will be hoping for a few more sales to be added with this update before time is called. Even with a starting price of £28,000 for the 1.5. 

Mazda UK’s MD Jeremy Thomson said: “Our engineers created a sports car that incorporates our ground-breaking Skyactiv technology, modern safety and superb efficiency with the driver-focused enjoyment for which the MX-5 is loved. The MX-5 is Mazda’s brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products. Mazda’s unceasing commitment to refining the vehicle over its 30-year history is highlighted again with the subtle but focused updates to the 2024 MX-5, which ensure this car continues to be an affordable, engaging, world-class sports car”.