Mazda has revised its MX-5 with a new front end and has added a special TomTom sat nav version to the line-up.
The new seven-strong range now includes the 2.0-litre MX-5 Sport Tech Nav models, with integrated satellite navigation as standard – a Mazda first on the MX-5 range.
It goes on sale from December 1 priced from £18,495 to £23,595. The current model range is priced from £17,995 to £23,595 but buyers should expect a discount if they are interested snapping up the outgoing model before the new car hits the showroom.
The current model is seven years old which means an all-new model is pretty much overdue but a partnership with Alfa Romeo has put the schedule back a bit. It is expected that an all-new MX-5 will be available in 2014.
This refresh should please the MX-5 diehards though, and it is the first Mazda to be equipped with the company’s newly-developed active bonnet system. If a collision with a pedestrian is detected, the trailing edge of the bonnet instantly pops up to increase the crumple zone between the bonnet and engine, reducing the severity of pedestrian injuries.
Mazda has also been working on changes underneath the skin. Now, the six-speed manual transmission models feature a modified throttle to improve responsiveness. Work has also been carried out to improve the car’s braking system too.
There’s also more kit and each model features climate control air-conditioning and glossy dark grey dashboard panel and steering wheel inserts. Mazda MX-5 Sport Tech and PowerShift models also gain an auto-dimming interior mirror, while Sport Tech models get an alloy pedal set.
The new Sport Tech Nav model features a TomTom sat nav with a fully integrated 5.8-inch touchscreen monitor, 4GB SD card-based map (45 countries), Live Services, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity and complete multi-media functionality.
There’s an improved range of colours and to go with the three powertrain choices: the 124bhp 1.8i MZR with a five-speed gearbox, and the 158bhp 2.0i MZR with a six-speed manual transmission or the PowerShift six-speed sequential semi-auto with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters.
