Exterior
Mazda MX-5 range
The Mazda MX-5 has a range of 10 models which uses Mazda’s very familiar trim structure of Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura. New for 2023, the range-topping Homura features additional design touches, including Light Stone leather seats and red Brembo brake callipers on manual models.
Colours and options
The Mazda MX-5 is available in a choice of seven colours – Artic White, Deep Crystal Blue, Jet Black, Machine Grey, Platinum Quartz, Soul Red Crystal and the new Zircon Sand. MX-5 Roadster models are matched with a Black cloth soft-top roof.
Proportions
Shorter, lower and wider than the Mk3 MX-5, with the smallest overhangs and lowest centre of gravity yet, the current generation Mazda MX-5 is the most compact MX-5 ever produced. With a low driver’s seat and position in the cabin, visibility is excellent across the long tapering bonnet. With the A-Pillars swept back and the side panels free from any unnecessary lines, the pure and simple roadster proportions of the MX-5 are clear to see. Even compared against the diminutive Mk1 original, the current generation Mazda MX-5 remains 55mm shorter and 10mm lower.
Boot and roof
Effortless to fold, the Mazda MX-5’s fabric hood is a triumph of simplicity and style. In line with Mazda’s ‘gram-strategy’ the cloth hood of the latest car is 3kg lighter than the third-generation car. Even better, while closing the top of the previous model required a maximum of 90Nm of force, the latest MX-5’s hood requires just 50Nm of force – meaning it’s even easier to reach behind you and close the roof with one-hand. The MX-5 has a 130-litre boot that has been designed for improved usability – while the third generation car could only carry one airline sized carry-on suitcase, with a 35mm longer and 36mm deeper boot, the 2023 MX-5 can carry two. Plus, unlike the previous generation, there’s also an external boot release button.
Styling
Mazda’s Kodo: Soul of Motion design philosophy gives the MX-5 a more aggressive, yet simple look, that retains classic roadster proportions at the same time as reflecting the MX-5’s focus on agility, lightness and driving pleasure in an unmistakably contemporary and dynamic way. With a design that melts away the boundaries between inside and outside it’s the perfect open-top sports car with beautiful proportions that make the occupants stand out and look good. With a deep expression of Kodo design, the Mazda MX-5’s body surfaces richly express the Japanese sense of contrast between stillness and motion.
Safety
The Mazda MX-5 Roadster continues to offer unparalleled levels of safety with a deployable active bonnet system for pedestrian protection and a lightweight, yet incredibly strong, Skyactiv-Body. Front and side airbags are standard, and the side airbags feature a special bracket on the outside shoulder of the seat to protect occupants’ heads even with the top down. The passenger seat is equipped with anchors and a top tether for ISOFIX child seats. The RF also benefits from Mazda’s i-Activsense active safety technology.
Kinematic Posture Control
To enhance the MX-5’s Jinba Ittai connection, Mazda has developed Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) technology which can be found on the Mazda MX-5 and Mazda CX-60. The system recognises a difference in speeds between the back wheels while cornering, lightly applying the brakes on the inner wheel. This prevents lift, enhancing the characteristics of the MX-5’s rear multi-link suspension and suppressing body roll. In short, KPC stabilises the car, especially during hard cornering with high G-forces and on rough roads, making the MX-5’s already legendary handling that much better while also improving comfort. KPC, which adds no weight whatsoever to the car, is standard equipment on all 2023 MX-5s.