2024 is already more than halfway through, and the celebrations for the 35th anniversary of the Mazda MX-5, a roadster built in Japan whose 2024 generation is available at Mazda dealers in Portugal and the rest of Europe, continue. The iconic two-seater, which has redefined driving pleasure for more than three decades, under the Jinba Itai philosophy, remains the ideal choice for open-air touring.
Since its debut at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989, the Mazda MX-5 has instantly become the epitome of driving fun, embodying the spirit of small roadster fun.
Over the years and its four generations (from the original “NA” to the current “ND”), the MX-5 has evolved and kept up with the times, always remaining true to its core philosophy: to deliver a driving experience without parallel. Today, with over 1.25 million units sold worldwide, the model continues to hold the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seater sports car on the planet.
Since its original design by Bob Hall, the MX-5’s journey has been one of innovation and passion. Each new generation has brought new developments, while always maintaining the light, agile spirit that defines any Mazda MX-5. Its four generations show the evolution and chronology over these three and a half decades. The MX-5, which goes on sale in 2024, in the “ND” generation that splits between the soft top and the RF hard top, continues this legacy, with improved design and advanced features, most notably:
New design elements: Subtle updates include advanced LED headlights, revised taillights and a new Aero Grey metallic colour option, which joins six other colours and hood combinations;
Enhanced Security Features: The comprehensive suite of safety systems includes the Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Emergency Brake Assist and a new secondary collision mitigation system;
Advanced Infotainment System: The updated Mazda Connect system now includes an 8.8-inch color touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration and improved image quality from the rearview camera;
Performance updates: Introducing DSC-Track mode for improved track driving and a new asymmetric limited-slip differential.
The latest set of images of this summer’s most distinctive feature car were collected near Zadar, Croatia, and were captured on its stunning coastal roads and historic charm, an ideal location for a perfect driving experience, highlighting the capabilities and characteristics of both body styles. Mazda MX-5 (ST and RF – with retractable fastback roof).
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Summary of the 2024 MX-5 lineup in Portugal
On sale at Mazda dealers since the end of the first quarter of this year, both body versions of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 are divided into 3 equipment levels: Prime-line, Exclusive-line, and Kazari (special edition).
Offered in a palette of 7 colours (one solid and six metallic), their liveries are black in the cloth versions and body colour in the solid versions, with the exclusive beige (ST) or black (RF) reserved for the MX-5 Cazari offerings. Both kits come standard with 16×6.5J wheels and 195/50 R16 84V tyres.
The cockpit is dominated by black, which is upholstered in fabric on the Prime-Line and Leganu leather on the Exclusive-Line. The MX-5 Kazari stands out from the crowd with its seats wrapped in Nappa Tan.
The only mechanical option available in Portugal in 2024 is the proven 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine, which maintains a maximum power of 132 hp/97 kW at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 152 Nm at 4,500 rpm, distributed to the rear wheels and is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox (6MT). Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is completed in 8.3 seconds (MX-5 ST) and 8.6 seconds (MX-5 RF), reaching a top speed of 204 km/h and 203 km/h respectively. Fuel consumption is 6.3 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 142 g/km (combined values, WLTP).
General sales prices start at €35,947 (MX-5 ST) and €38,447 (MX-5 RF) for the Primeline version, progressing to €41,947 (ST) and €44,447 (RF) for the Online Exclusive version. The MX-5 Kazari Special Edition is proposed for €42,747 (ST) and €45,247 (RF).
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