A package of updates to the Mazda MX-5 is to include an increase in maximum engine power.
On sale in September and applied across both the roadster and RF hard-top versions of the car, the refresh will see a revised version of the 2.0-litre SkyActiv petrol engine fitted to the car, its maximum power raised from 160 to 184hp.
This has been achieved by the use of lighter pistons and con-rods, revisions to the camshafts and exhaust valves, the fuel injectors, throttle valve and air intake.
Faster to 62mph
The redline on the engine now increases from 6,800 to 7,500rpm, while peak torque raises by 5Nm. This cuts eight tenths from the 0-62mph time of the 2-litre MX-5 in roadster form, now hitting the mark in 6.5 seconds. RF manual models improve by six tenths and the auto version by half a second.
Mazda adds that the new potency does not come at the expense of efficiency. Both the 2019 MX-5s engines achieve Euro 6d Temp emission regulation compliance under the new WLTP emissions rules, while the introduction of Mazda’s i-Eloop and i-stop kinetic recovery and stop-start technology on the 2.0-litre models results in the new engine returning lower CO2 emissions than the outgoing 160hp car.
The upgraded engine will be available in a range-topping GT Sport Nav+ model from 1st September, with versions in SE-L Nav+ and Sport Nav+ models going on sale later in the autumn.
Mazda has also improved the 1.5-litre MX-5 engine, which sees a sight power and torque increase to 132hp and 152Nm, with no penalty in economy or emissions. These go on sale across the rang eon 1st September.
Other 2019 updates include telescopic steering adjustment, improved seat sliding, while the only changes to the styling are to add new 16 and 17-inch wheel designs.
Prices for the MX-5 start from £18,995, ranging up to £29,195.
Keyword: Higher-power Mazda MX-5 on sale in September