Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The Mazda Miata is the world's best-selling two-seater sports car, selling over 1.26 million examples, earning itself a cult following over the past three decades. However, even this lightweight roadster is not immune to increasingly strict regulations. Mazda will update the MX-5 Miata to comply with new vehicle noise rules that take effect in Japan this July. The changes are designed to keep the current ND-generation model compliant while the company continues developing the next-generation Mazda Miata.New Noise Rules Force Mazda To Quiet DownMazdaMazdaJapan's latest noise standards align with UN Regulation No. 51 Phase 3, which lowers the maximum permitted vehicle noise level based on a car's power-to-weight ratio. To comply, Mazda has equipped the MX-5 with a larger muffler and a new set of quieter tyres, and retuned the air intake and resonator sound. Together, the changes are expected to reduce cabin noise by around 2-3 decibels. While that may not sound like much, even a small reduction can make a noticeable difference. Mazda has also revised the suspension, replacing the previous soft-spring, firm-damper setup with stiffer springs and softer dampers. These updates apply to both the soft-top MX-5 and the Mazda Miata RF with its retractable hardtop.Mazda Miata Pure SportMazdaMazdaAdvertisementAdvertisementAlongside the regulatory revisions, Mazda is introducing a Japan-exclusive model called the Pure Sport (PS). Like every Japanese-market Miata, it sports a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine instead of the 2.0-litre we're used to. The special edition distinguishes itself with Zinc Green Metallic paint, a grey fabric roof, black 16-inch Rays wheels, Bilstein dampers, Brembo brakes with silver calipers, and some subtle bespoke interior trim pieces. The result is a more sophisticated version of the iconic roadster while preserving the simplicity that's made the MX-5 so appealing to enthusiasts.Mazda's Future Beyond The MiataMazdaMazdaWhile the MX-5 continues to evolve, Mazda is making progress on several other fronts. The new Mazda CX-5 is proving to be a sales success in the United States, while the company is also working towards being carbon-neutral by 2035. One of the more ambitious technologies under development is a mobile carbon-capture system that captures and stores CO2 onboard while the vehicle is being driven. For now, the current MX-5 lives on, even if it has become a little quieter.This story was originally published by Autoblog on Jun 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.