by Updates for the Mazda MX-5 in Europe: a new color, a special edition, and a bit more power
Mazda has introduced a minor update for the MX-5 Miata (ND) on the European market, for the 2027 model year. The car receives a fresh body color option, a new special series, and a slightly refined engine.
The ND generation has been in production since 2014, having undergone facelifts in 2018 and 2024. The body panels remain unchanged for 2027, but the color palette gains the Zinc Green shade, which will also debut on the 2027 CX-30 model.
Yakudo special edition and other trims
The main news is the special Yakudo edition, available exclusively for soft-top cars. It features silver exterior accents, matching silver brake calipers, and a two-seat interior trimmed in Alcantara.
Alongside the Yakudo, the luxurious Kazari and sportier Homura versions are offered. The latter is equipped with 16-inch black RAYS forged wheels, red Brembo brake calipers, Bilstein shock absorbers, and a front strut brace. This resembles the American MX-5 Club version, although the US car has different 17-inch wheels.
Interior and safety
The interior also remains unchanged, including the 8.8-inch infotainment display introduced in 2024. However, the standard safety package has been improved with the addition of the Driver Attention Alert (DAA) system, which monitors the driver’s attention.
Slight power increase
The European MX-5 is available exclusively with the 1.5 Skyactiv-G naturally aspirated engine, as the 2.0-liter unit was discontinued due to emissions regulations (though it remains available in the UK market). For 2027, Mazda engineers have slightly increased power and improved engine sound, which, according to the company, helps “enhance the agile and direct handling character” of the roadster.
More specifically, the 1.5-liter engine now produces 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, which is 4 hp (3 kW) more than its predecessor. CO2 emissions have decreased from 140-142 g/km to 139 g/km. The average fuel consumption under the WLTP cycle is now 6.1 L/100 km, a slight improvement over the previous 6.2-6.3 L/100 km.
Production and future
Production of left-hand drive MX-5s for Europe began in May, while right-hand drive versions started in September. First deliveries to European markets are expected in September 2026, with prices to be announced closer to that date.
Despite its age, the current ND generation is expected to remain on the assembly line until 2029. According to recent reports, its successor will feature some form of hybrid assistance for the four-cylinder engine, staying true to its lightweight character.
Interestingly, Mazda continues to keep the over-a-decade-old model relevant with small but meaningful updates. The 4 hp power increase may seem insignificant, but combined with the improved engine sound, it demonstrates a commitment to preserving the emotional connection with the driver that has always been the MX-5’s hallmark. The discontinuation of the 2.0-liter engine in Europe due to emissions regulations is telling — it is a compromise necessary to keep the model in the lineup. At the same time, plans for hybridization of the next generation suggest that Mazda has no intention of abandoning its legendary model, striving to adapt it to the stringent demands of the future.
