Mazda MX-5 update sees 2.0-litre engine dropped
The Mazda MX-5 will lose its more powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine in the UK from January, leaving an updated 1.5-litre engine as the sports car’s only powertrain option.
Mazda withdrew the 184hp 2.0-litre engine from other European markets in 2024 as a result of changing emissions regulations, but different timings for the UK allowed sales here to continue for longer. That exemption has now come to an end, meaning the engine cannot be carried over into the new year.
Existing 2.0-litre cars aren’t disappearing immediately. Mazda says it has enough UK stock to satisfy expected demand until around January, when the updated range reaches dealerships.
That leaves the 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine as the sole choice for both the fabric-roof MX-5 Roadster and folding hard-top MX-5 RF.
More power for the remaining 1.5-litre
Mazda has made some changes to the smaller engine for 2027, increasing output slightly to 136hp while reducing CO2 emissions to 139g/km. Changes have also been made to the engine sound, although Mazda hasn’t detailed exactly what has been altered.
The six-speed manual gearbox remains, as does rear-wheel drive. The revised range comprises four trim levels – ‘Prime-Line’, ‘Exclusive-Line’, ‘Homura’ and ‘Homura Plus’ – available with either Roadster or RF bodywork, giving eight versions in total.
Perhaps more significantly for buyers who previously gravitated towards the 2.0-litre car, Mazda is bringing some of its more driver-focused equipment to the 1.5-litre for the first time.
The new ‘Homura’ and ‘Homura Plus’ versions get Bilstein dampers and a front strut brace, along with red Brembo front brakes. They are distinguished by 16-inch black Rays alloy wheels, black door mirrors and red rear brake calipers, while the interior gets Recaro sports seats.
New colour and safety equipment
The other obvious change is the introduction of ‘Zinc Green Metallic’, a new exterior paint colour that will be available in the new year.
Driver monitoring also becomes standard on every model, while the range-topping ‘Homura Plus’ adds adaptive LED headlights, rear automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic assistance, an exit warning system and reversing camera. Otherwise, the fundamentals of the current fourth-generation MX-5 remain unchanged.
Pricing and availability
The 2027 Mazda MX-5 will arrive in UK dealerships in January, with full pricing due to be announced later this year.
Customers wanting the outgoing 184hp 2.0-litre MX-5 will therefore need to buy from remaining UK stock. Mazda expects supplies to last until approximately January, although availability will naturally depend on demand.
The long-standing fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 holds a New Car Expert Rating of B, with a score of 64%. It scores top marks from media reviewers for its fabulous driving experience, but its safety rating has now expired due to age.
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