The new Mazda MX-5 will cost from £28,000

Got £28,000 burning a hole in your pocket and want to make one of the most predictable - and correct - motoring choices in the world? Good, because Mazda is set to release its new MX-5 next month, which tones down the angry puppy face but adopts several interior changes.

The range itself remains the same, so customers have eight models and three trim levels split across the Roadster and RF body types to choose from. The powertrains are also unchanged, so you can pick from either a 1.5-litre (130bhp) or 2.0-litre (184bhp) four-pot.

All 2.0-litre cars will come as standard with a new limited-slip differential, which adds to the pre-existing list of mechanical goodies including a front strut brace and Bilstein dampers. Mazda has used many confusing phrases to explain that the MX-5’s differential is fairly adaptable too, so it should be even more agile and responsive when things get twisty.

Externally, the most noticeable changes include a revised set of lights at either end and the option of a new ‘Aero Grey’ paint finish.

The cabin has, by contrast, seen a much more thorough makeover. You now get a larger 8.8in infotainment screen and updated instrument cluster. You’ll also spot a few additional USB-C ports, plus leather and Alcantara-trimmed Recaro seats if you go for the range-topping 'Homura' edition.

Mazda has even played around with the MX-5’s electronics for further refinement. So the new Dynamic Stability Control driving mode should make it even more exciting to throw about, while small alterations to the throttle mean a bit more punch. The electric power steering has also seen a minor rework. Ultimately, these small changes should add up to make a big difference in this facelift. 

Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda UK, said: “Mazda’s unceasing commitment to refining the vehicle over its 30-year history is highlighted again with the subtle but focused updates to the 2024 MX-5, which ensure this car continues to be an affordable, engaging, world-class sports car”.

Wait, what? Yes, somehow 35 years have passed since the first-generation MX-5 was launched, and duly set off on its journey to dominate the world’s convertible sports car market. It’s a seat it still quite comfortably holds, with over 1.25 million examples being sold since 1989. For some reference, the entire population of Cyprus sits at 1.26 million at present. Crikey.