The current-generation Mazda MX-5 car may receive another minor aesthetic upgrade, according to spy photographs of the vehicle being tested on Germany’s Nurburgring race track. Images show a revised back antenna as well as slight changes to the headlight, taillight and fog light layouts. The alterations are thought to be a light facelift, although some speculating that the prototype could be a “test mule” for the MX-5 of the following generation. Although a release date for Mazda‘s modifications has not yet been announced, they look to be in production ready condition.
The Mazda MX-5 has been available in Australia for almost eight years, and the discovery of a fresh update for the present model suggests that a brand-new version is still a few years away. According to reports from Japan, the following MX-5, which might be called the ‘NE’ or ‘NG’ model to replace the current ‘ND’ model, could debut the following year. Although subtle, the introduction of the altered appearance may indicate that a new model won’t be available for at least 18 months, and other rumours suggest that it might not happen until 2026.
It is anticipated that the upcoming Mazda MX-5 would include hybrid power, most likely a mild hybrid system. According to reports from outside, it might feature Mazda’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder “SkyActiv-X” petrol engine from the Mazda 3 hatchback and CX-30 small SUV, which employs a fuel-saving method similar to that used in diesel engines called “spark-controlled compression ignition.” This engine, along with a variant version of the 2.0-liter “SkyActiv-G” petrol four-cylinder engine found in the current MX-5, has mild hybrid technology installed by Mazda in the Mazda 3 hatchback, CX-30, and MX-30 small SUVs.
Although the current model has been around since mid-2015, the alterations seen in the spy photographs would be the first significant aesthetic update. The bumpers and lights haven’t undergone any significant alterations in the past three years, despite the addition of new exterior colours and the addition of a GT RS flagship edition in 2021 with new alloy wheels. The shark-fin antenna that is visible on this prototype is already installed on American models to pick up signals for satellite radio services in North America. On this prototype, the shark fin looks to completely replace the aerial, but it is really installed in addition to the conventional aerial.