For full three decades, the MX-5 has been one of the most famous roadsters in the world. The Japanese carmaker is perfectly aware of this, so its no wonder this small sports cars always gets special treatment from Mazda engineers. The current generation has been around for some time. We’ve already seen an update that has brought a more powerful engine and a couple on interior changes. However, we didn’t see any exterior change, which would be great considering that the competition is getting tougher these days. Therefore, many reports suggest novelties for the 2021 Mazda MX-5. According to the latest reports, it won’t be a complete overhaul, but rather a facelift, which will also bring some important novelties under the hood.
Exterior
Pros
- Unparalleled driving experience
- Quick acceleration
- Upscale interior
- Both soft and hardtop versions are available
Cons
- Tight cabin
- Seats could be more supportive
One of the most interesting things about this small roadster is that it doesn’t have too many things in common with the rest of Mazda’s lineup. For example, it rides on a platform that has been developed especially for this model, which features FMR layout.
The same thing goes for aesthetics. Visuall, this sports car doesn’t share many design solutions with the other models. Considering that new Mazda cars look really gorgeous, this seems like a real shame, especially if we consider that the current MX-5 isn’t the prettiest car you can find around. Therefore, we count on novelties for the 2021 Mazda MX-5. The new version should get closer to the brand’s new design language, but will also keep most of its distinctive details. Of course, the area that should suffer most is the front end.
Interior
When it comes to interior design, there isn’t too much room for improvement in the current model. The overall interior quality is already pretty amazing. Most materials are nice and soft on tough, while the dashboard looks pretty stylish. The recent update has also brought an adjustable steering wheel, so taller drivers can now also enjoy the drive.
The list of standard equipment could be expanded for a bit, but the current model is already pretty decent in this aspect. It comes standard with tech goodies like 7-inch touch screen, a six-speaker audio system, two USB ports, and Bluetooth. Eventually, we could see things like navigation and satellite radio standard in the new model. Also, count on a couple of additions in terms of safety features, as a rearview camera is currently the only standard feature.
| Dimensions And Weight | |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 90.9 |
| Length (in.) | 154.1 |
| Height (in.) | 48.8 |
| Overall width (in.) | 68.3 |
| Curb Weight | 2339 lbs. |
| Ground Clearance | 5.3 in. |
| Engine And Transmission | |
| Engine type | inline 4 |
| Displacement | 2.0 L |
| Power/torque | 181 hp @ 7000 rpm/151 ft-lbs. @ 4000 rpm |
| Estimated mpg | 26 City / 34 Hwy |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.9 gal. |
| Weights / Capacities | |
| Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place | 4.6 cu.ft. |
| Maximum Payload | 406 lbs. |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity | 4.6 cu.ft. |
| PRICE RANGE: $52,795 – $64,550 starting msrp | |
| Competitors: Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 | |
Engine
Big novelties are possible under the hood. This small roadster has always been famous for unparalleled driving experience and the current model still holds such reputation. However, the competition is getting tougher these days. New generations of Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are about to come in the near future and, allegedly, there will feature plenty of power, probably full 260 hp.
The current MX-5 is good for about 181 horsepower and although the power doesn’t play such an important role in this case, Mazda would probably want to offer something more powerful. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is a new SkyActive X engine. Also, we presume it would be a more powerful version compared to the initial unit that debuts in the new Mazda3, which delivers around 185 horsepower. Other mechanical modifications aren’t expected for the 2021 Mazda MX-5.
2021 Mazda MX-5 Release Date and Price
Despite the potential novelties, latest reports suggest that the 2021 Mazda MX-5 will stick to the usual schedule. That means we should see it sometime late in the next year. Also, we don’t expect to see bigger changes in price. The current model starts at around $26,000.
