Miata Got an Update Because It Was ... Too Noisy?MazdaThe Mazda Miata is, quite simply, one of the most joyous automobiles money can buy. The current ND-generation model has had the longest lifespan of any MX-5, having gone on sale back in 2015; and while we know Mazda's working behind the scenes to get the next-gen roadster ready for prime time, that hasn't stopped regulations from catching up with the venerable ND. In fact, new reports out of Japan state that Mazda has had to rework the car a bit in order to comply with some rules specific to the Japanese and European markets.The issue? The Miata, of all cars, is too darn loud.First brought to our attention to Kuruma News out of Japan, Mazda is set to unveil its latest update to the MX-5 ahead of July, as that's when Japan's new vehicle noise requirements are set to take effect. The country's policy is inline with the international UN Regulation No. 51 (R51-03), which enters Phase 3 next month. This transition will see acceptable decibel levels drop to just 68-72 dB, with the limit specifically related to a vehicle's power-to-weight ratio. Mazda previously reworked the intake of the ND in order to comply with the previous phase of the regulations. Vehicles were allowed to produce 72-75 dB during Phase 1, dropping to 70-74 dB in Phase 2.MazdaMazda's solution for these stricter rules is twofold: the Miata will pick up a larger muffler setup that should help keep things a bit more muted. (It's worth noting that the 2.0-liter capacity of the new muffler is actually greater than the 1.5-liter engine that powers the car in other markets.) Mazda will also outfit the car with a new tire package that is said to be quieter than the current units. The tweaks should work together to drop the current noise levels inside the cabin by 2-3 decibels—which, as decibels work on a logarithmic scale, is more significant than it might seem.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe update will see some additional tweaks to the car, as well, including a change in the damping philosophy that see soft springs with stiff dampers swapped for stiff springs with soft dampers. The brand will also release the Pure Sport model, which adopts Zinc Green Metallic paint, a gray fabric roof, and standard Bilsten dampers. The special model also gets a set of Brembo stoppers with silver calipers that sit behind a set of 16-inch Rays wheels finished in black. As you can see in the pictures in this story, it's a rather handsome little roadster.While we wouldn't consider the Miata obscenely loud here in the States, the situation only goes to show how difficult the ever-changing regulatory landscape can be to tackle in the automotive industry. That said, we're always happy to applaud the Miata team for their efforts in keeping one of our favorite machines alive and well.You Might Also LikeIf You Can Only Own One Car, Make It One of TheseThese Are the Most Popular Cars by State