2018 Mazda MX-5 updates detailed for Australia

Mazda Australia has detailed its 2018 Mazda MX-5 range, with new equipment for the 2018 model year. Fresh off the bat from releasing the RF Limited Edition (of which is still available), Mazda have announced a number of small updates for their top-roadster.

All models are now better equipped than before, and under the skin Mazda have made a number of changes to make the car better to drive – there’s more sound insulation, re-tuned rear suspension and new active safety equipment such as lane departure warning on GT models. The 2018 Mazda MX-5 is in dealerships now.

Mazda Australia Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi, said the updated MX-5 offers the thrilling and liberating drive that has always defined the iconic sports car.

“The MX-5 carries a promise of fun, and the upgraded fourth generation model certainly upholds this,” said Mr Bhindi.

“The enhancements and added equipment are another phase in its constant evolution, which is testament to Mazda’s endless pursuit of achieving driving pleasure.”

After additional equipment was added to the 2017 MX-5, Mazda Australia has added more equipment for 2018. Price rises ranging from $100 to $1,320 now apply across the MX-5 range, though each model is better off than before. GT models are now equipped with lane departure warning, as well as adaptive LED headlights that corner as well as adapt their beam to oncoming cars. Small details such as a revised infotainment screen surround and sensor-lit (not headlight-lit) instruments are now implemented, just like in other Mazda models. Mazda’s Machine Grey colour has been given to the roadster for the first time, though the dark red roof colour available for roadster models overseas is not yet offered in Australia.

The 2018 Mazda MX-5 has also undergone changes under the skin aimed at making the car better to drive in all situations. Added sound insulation has been added to the centre console and roof to reduce the car’s noise, vibration and harshness levels and the car’s rear suspension has been retuned to make it more comfortable in everyday driving. The MX-5 roadster also earned the RF’s upper link bushings tune, which were lowered and the rear bump stop was also lengthened and therefore comes into effect earlier.

2018 Mazda MX-5 pricing (plus on-road costs):
Roadster 1.5-litre 6-speed manual – $33,440
Roadster 1.5-litre 6-speed automatic – $35,440
Roadster GT 1.5-litre 6-speed manual – $39,660
Roadster GT 1.5-litre 6-speed automatic – $41,660
Roadster 2.0-litre 6-speed manual – $34,950
Roadster 2.0-litre 6-speed automatic – $36,950
Roadster GT 2.0-litre 6-speed manual – $41,210
Roadster GT 2.0-litre 6-speed automatic – $43,210
RF 2.0-litre 6-speed-manual – $38,650
RF 2.0-litre 6-speed automatic – $40,650
RF GT 2.0-litre 6-speed manual – $45,210
RF GT 2.0-litre 6-speed automatic – $47,210
RF Limited Edition 6-speed manual – $52,210

Options:
Soul Red Crystal or Machine Grey paint: $300
Black roof/Auburn Red leather upholstery (RF GT only): $1,000

Stay tuned to Chasing Cars for news and reviews regarding the Mazda range. You can watch our MX-5 vs Toyota 86 comparison here.