Mazda's new JDM MX-5 Miata benefits from some choice upgrades that make it especially enticing.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreMazda's fourth-generation MX-5 Miata is getting pretty long in the tooth at this point, but that's not to say that it's been stagnant during its time on the market. Over the years, the automaker has continued to keep the little droptop relevant. Between incremental updates and limited-run releases à la last year's 35th Anniversary Edition, Mazda keeps busy. AdvertisementAdvertisementAs part of its latest Miata appeal, Mazda has announced a new enthusiast special is on the way. It's exclusive to Japan for now, though it could signal that there's more to come Stateside.The new Zinc Green makes for a subtle but tasteful look. - Credit: MazdaA pure driver's carI'm talking about the 'PS' or Pure Sport model that Mazda recently unveiled on the heels of the new Zinc Green Metallic colorway. While the MX-5 has an established reputation as a driver's car, the treatment aims to make it even sharper in handling (and looks). Accordingly, it benefits from some choice upgrades that are inspired by the MSR Roadster. In addition to some carefully tuned suspension, it also brings a set of special Bilstein dampers like those used on the cup cars.Thankfully, the PS preserves the love of the manual transmission. - Credit: MazdaMoreover, in keeping with its enthusiast positioning, the MX-5 PS is only available with a six-speed manual transmission. Thankfully, Mazda has added heel-and-toe assist and tweaked the throttle response for AdvertisementAdvertisementWith stopping power coming from a set of Brembo ventilated discs and silver four-piston calipers, it's made only better by its black Rays spoked wheels and grey soft top. Together, they really complement the new verdant hue.The grey soft top adds a sharp contrast in combination with the black wheels. - Credit: MazdaPipe down (up)Interestingly, even though Japan's MX-5 brings a smaller 1.5-liter four-pot than the model sold here in the United States, it was nevertheless still too loud for the new noise regulations.As a result, Mazda also had to make a few updates to keep the convertible in-spec going forward. It now rides on quieter tires from the factory, and it brings a larger muffler with new resonators and ribs in the intake and exhaust system.Mazda's induction sound enhancer pipes engine noises into the cabin for a richer experience. - Credit: MazdaNow, to make up for the difference, Mazda will be providing its induction sound enhancer as a standard feature.AdvertisementAdvertisementNotably, unlike simulated engine noises, it relies on a physical tube to funnel sound from the intake directly to the cabin. As a result, it's more of an amplification than it is a recreation. Availability and pricingAt this time, Mazda has only announced PS availability for its home market.However, seeing as the Zinc Green Metallic was a colorway with a U.S. release, there is some potential for more upgrades to come. It's about time, as rumor has it that a fifth generation is nearing and an EV could follow.2027 Mazda MX-5 Miata PS Learn More About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.AdvertisementAdvertisementWant to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.
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