Updated Mazda MX-5 Loses its 2.0 litre Engine

The 184 PS 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine was dropped from European markets back in 2024 due to changing emissions regulations, however the UK gave it a 2-year grace period which comes to an end at the end of the year, meaning the 2.0-litre Mazda MX-5 will not be available in the 2027 model updates.

Mazda UK Managing Director, Jeremy Thomson, said: “we have sufficient stock of 2.0-litre models to meet anticipated customer demand until around January, when the 2027 Mazda MX-5 will arrive in UK dealerships. While it’s a shame that changing legislation means we can no longer sell the 2.0-litre in the UK, the 1.5-litre engine remains at the heart of the MX-5. The current-generation MX-5 was originally developed around this engine, with its lightweight, responsive and accessible performance perfectly reflecting Jinba Ittai. The 1.5-litre ensures customers can continue to enjoy the lightweight, engaging and fun to drive experience that has defined the Mazda MX-5 for more than 35 years and continues to win awards as one of the best driving cars on the road today”.

The 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G engine has been updated and now produces 136 PS and 155 Nm of torque (up by 4 PS and 3 torques) and will be available for the 2027 model in January next year. The outgoing 1.5 litre MX-5 can hit 60 mph from a standstill in 8.3 seconds, whereas the outgoing 2.0 litre was 1.5 seconds quicker to 60 mph, albeit it was 65 kg heavier.
CO2 emissions have also been cut to 139g/km, while MX-5’s driving experience is unchanged.

The Roadster and RF models will receive a new Homura and Homura Plus trims which can be identified with new 16-inch metallic black RAYS alloy wheels, red Brembo front brakes, red rear brake callipers and black mirrors. Inside, there are Recaro seats, plus black air vent surrounds and air conditioning controls to add to the cabin’s appeal.

The Homura and Homura Plus also receive Bilstein dampers and front strut brace to for the first time in the 1.5 engine car, which should add to a great driving engagement.

2027 also sees a new Zinc Green Metallic paint, with this being the 80th shade of green offered throughout the car makers history.

There’s a raft of safety improvements reaching the 2027 Mazda MX-5, from Driver Monitoring - that’s now standard equipment across all grades - to the Homura Plus gaining Adaptive LED Headlights, Smart Brake Support Rear, Rear Crossing Alert, Vehicle Exit Warning and rear-view camera.

The full range and pricing for the 2027 Mazda MX-5 will be announced later this year, and will arrive in UK showrooms in January.

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