Mazda MX-5 freshened for 2024

MAZDA has increased the price of its just upgraded, eight-year-old MX-5 ND-series sports car which, in base (soft top) roadster form now starts at $41,370 (up $2310), rising across the nine-variant range to top out at $55,990 (up $3220) for the hard top RF GT RS.

Available from Q1 2024, it has no current direct competition; although you can buy a 2.3-litre Ford Mustang hard top for $52,590 or add roughly $9k more for the four pot ‘Stang convertible.

A Mini Cooper convertible is from $51,000 plus on-road costs.

The ND-series MX-5 lobbed back in 2015 as Mazda’s fourth generation MX-5 that collectively has sold more than any other sports car globally.

Not without teething troubles, centred on a weak gearbox that was designed for a 1.5-litre engine and not a 2.0-litre, the ND has been a popular choice for people wanting an open air driving experience.

Coupled with that, it has a formidable reputation in grass roots motor racing circles as the go-to vehicle based on all round performance, purchase price, running costs and reliability.

The latest iteration MX-5 is upgraded in several areas with a focus on delivering a better motorsport result and being more ‘connected’. Minor changes have been made to the head- and taillights.

Mazda says the changes “result in the most exhilarating MX-5 driving experience yet”.

Aiding fast cornering, the manual 2024 MX-5 scores DSC-TRACK, a new Dynamic Stability Control mode optimised for circuit driving complemented by a newly developed Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (Asymmetric LSD).

But it’s only on the flagship GT RS grade and, according to Mazda, “affords maximum deference to the driver when operating the vehicle, interposing an over-steering restricting control only when in a hazardous spin that the driver is unable to control”.

Mazda says ultimately, it is the driver that takes the lead in DSC-TRACK as it assists the driver to fully focus on driving.

Moving to actual mechanical changes as opposed to electronic tweaks, we find the adopted Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (Asymmetric LSD) stabilises vehicle turn-in behaviour by varying the limiting force of slip on the differential gear in response to vehicle acceleration and deceleration as the rear wheel vertical load changes.

It is achieved through a cam mechanism that has been added to the conical clutch LSD which is lightweight, compact and highly durable. The cam angle is set differently for the deceleration side and acceleration side, thereby achieving optimal limiting force of slip during both processes.

Mazda says strengthening the slip limiting force during deceleration enhances stability when decelerating into a turn, which is where reduced rear wheel ground load causes vehicle instability.

The slip limiting force has been tuned and preload optimised for the MX-5’s engine, suspension, and tyre characteristics to realise a smoother and more linear turning performance.

Other facets of the 2024 MX-5 upgrade centre on the accelerator pedal, steering and engine sound.

Drive by wire accelerator pedal feel is improved for manual models to make it easier to modulate the distance from a vehicle travelling in front… the on/off feel. Quicker throttle response is also said to enhance track driving and during other high-speed driving scenarios.

A steering modification is implemented across all grades bringing a more nimble and precise response. It is achieved by a refined electric steering control logic and reduction to steering rack friction that gives a more natural and fluid response, in other words, a “more connected feel”.

No changes have been made to the revvy 135kW/205Nm 2.0-litre petrol engine, but a sound generator is used to funnel a growl from under the bonnet into the passenger compartment.

Inside the 2024 model we find a redesigned 8.8-inch centre display arrangement for better visibility and a more advanced Mazda Connect system but no phone charge pad and (still) minimal storage compartments or the wrong shape/size.

But the MX-5 becomes the first Mazda in the Australian range (from H1 2024) to support Connected Services functionality, which can connect the vehicle to emergency services and allow vehicle status to be checked via a smartphone app.

There is a new tan Nappa leather interior that can be specified on the RF GT in combination with a black convertible roof. The fine quality double stitched leather covers the centre console as well as the seats.

A new design 17-inch alloy makes an appearance along with the choice of seven-strong colours including a new hue, Aero Grey Metallic.

“The Mazda MX-5 is an unmistakable icon,” said Mazda Australia managing director, Vinesh Bhindi.

“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.”

2024 Mazda MX-5 pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.