Mazda has upgraded the MX-5 with new track-focused technology that makes it more exhilarating to drive.
A new Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) mode, DSC-TRACK, has been optimised for race circuit driving.
There’s also a newly developed Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (Asymmetric LSD).
Both are fitted exclusively to models with a manual transmission.
DSC-TRACK is reserved for the flagship GT RS grade and gives maximum control to the driver.
It intervenes only when the car is liable to spin out of control.
Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (Asymmetric LSD) stabilises vehicle turn-in behaviour by varying the limiting slip on the differential gear in response to vehicle acceleration and deceleration as rear wheel vertical load changes.
A cam mechanism has been added to the conical clutch LSD which is lightweight, compact and highly durable.
The cam angle is set differently for the deceleration side and acceleration side, thereby achieving optimal limiting force of slip during both processes.
Strengthening the slip limiting force during deceleration, enhances stability when decelerating into a turn, which is where reduced rear wheel ground load causes vehicle instability.
Moreover, tuning the slip limiting force and preload optimised for the MX-5’s engine, suspension, and tyre characteristics realises smoother and more linear turning performance.
Turning stability has been further improved to make the movement even lighter around town as well as over winding roads and race circuits.
Other subtle yet highly effective enhancements now span the accelerator pedal, steering and engine sound too for an even deeper connection to the car’s controls and touch points.
Throttle response has been improved for manual models, making distance control with the car in front now much easier to modulate thanks to a more natural feeling — and no sense of delay.
The improvement is particularly noticeable in daily driving when backing off.
On the circuit and during other high-speed driving scenarios, this quicker response translates to more dynamic control and when the accelerator has been disengaged prior to deceleration.
All variants benefit from an electric steering system that has been modified for more nimble and precise operability.
Steering rack friction is reduced, yet a more natural and fluid response achieved with refined electric power steering control logic.
The aim was to produce a sense of oneness so that, from the time the driver starts to turn the wheel until it returns to position, they feel more connected with the road surface.
Power comes from the same 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine, offering 135kW of power and 205Nm of torque.
For 2024, the sound is now drawn directly into the interior from the engine, without raising the acoustic pressure any more than necessary.
Enhancements for 2024 also extend to the interior, which gains a redesigned 8.8-inch centre display arrangement for better visibility and a more advanced Mazda Connect system.
MX-5 becomes the first Mazda in the Australian range to support Connected Services functionality, which can connect the vehicle to emergency services in case of an accident.
A new tan Nappa leather interior can be specified for the RF GT in combination with a black convertible roof, creating a classic and refined appearance.
Double stitched, the fine quality leather covers the centre console as well as the seats
Newly designed 17-inch alloys convey an expression of lightweight and functionality.
The seven-strong colour palette consisting of Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Zircon Sand Metallic, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Grey Metallic and Jet Black Mica gains a new hue – Aero Grey Metallic.
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Roadster and RF will go on sale locally in the first quarter of 2024.
Prices start from $41,370 for the manual roadster. The manual RF model is priced from $46,100 — both prices before on-road costs.
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