More than 35 years after its debut, the Mazda MX-5 remains committed to its lightweight, driver-focused formula. The 2027 model arrives in the UK in January with an updated line-up, new Homura variants and a revised 1.5-litre engine.
A New Chapter for the MX-5
The biggest change is the end of the 181hp, 2.0-litre engine in the UK due to changing emissions regulations. The 2027 MX-5 will now be offered exclusively with the 1.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine.
- More power: The updated engine produces 134hp and 155Nm.
- Lower emissions: CO₂ emissions are reduced to 139g/km.
- Eight variants: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line, Homura and Homura Plus are available in both Roadster and RF body styles.
New Homura Variants Add More Sportiness
The 1.5-litre MX-5 now gets the Homura and Homura Plus variants, bringing more performance-focused hardware and a sportier cabin.
- RAYS wheels and Brembo brakes: 16-inch black alloy wheels and red brake calipers sharpen the look.
- Better handling: Bilstein dampers and a front strut brace are introduced on the 1.5-litre.
- Recaro seats: The cabin gets a more focused, sporty character.
New Colour and More Safety
Mazda has also introduced Zinc Green Metallic, a new shade inspired by the colour and texture of zinc chromate primer. Driver Monitoring is now standard across the entire range.
- Homura Plus safety upgrades: Adaptive LED Headlights, Rear Crossing Alert, Vehicle Exit Warning and a rear-view camera.
- More convenience: The updates add to the MX-5’s everyday usability without changing its core character.
Still One of the Few
The MX-5 remains one of the few affordable cars to offer a combustion engine, rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox. As manual sports cars become increasingly rare, that combination remains central to its appeal.
Also read: https://fly-wheel.com/toyota-hilux-review-built-for-the-rough-refined-for-the-road/
Final Take
The 2027 Mazda MX-5 is an evolution rather than a reinvention. While the loss of the 2.0-litre engine marks the end of an era, the updated 1.5-litre, new Homura variants and added safety features ensure that the MX-5 stays true to what it has always done best, making driving enjoyable.
