Early First Drive Confirms Various Details of 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The past months has brought some interesting rumors to light on the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In March, a NHTSA document came to light that revealed the 2019 model would produce 181 horsepower from its 2.0L four-cylinder. A month later, a leaked document from a Canadian Mazda dealer confirmed the horsepower rating, along with some much wanted features such as a telescoping steering wheel.

Recently, Japanese outlet Car Watch had the chance to drive the updated 2019 MX-5 Miata for the Japanese market - called the Roadster. In their first drive report, they confirmed a number of details we have reported previously. For starters, the 2.0L has seen power boosted from 155 to 181. The engine has also see its redline increase from 6,800 to 7,500 rpm. This is due to a number of improvements for the engine including lighter pistons and a larger opening for the throttle body. Mazda has also fitted a new dual mass flywheel that will reduce vibrations coming inside, along with a new muffler. Other changes include new color choices for the exterior and interior; Smart City Brake Support, and a telescoping steering wheel.

Unsurprisingly, Mazda said that it "can't comment at this time" about if these changes will appear in the U.S. Given the amount of evidence, it would be a safe bet that we'll be seeing most, if not all appear on our MX-5 Miata in the near future.

Source: Car Watch, Road & Track