MX-5 Miata

Make
Mazda
Segment
Compact

Back in February, some regulatory documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicated that the Mazda MX-5 Miata could receive a massive power bump of 26 horsepower for the 2019 model year. Later in April, some documents from Mazda were leaked, confirming 181 hp for the 2019 Miata. Now, a Japanese magazine called Car Watch appears to have detailed information about the 2019 Miata. The publication has even driven the car, and has shared all of the juicy details. It looks like the Miata will finally get more power.

If the review is to be believed, the rumors claiming an increase from 155 hp to 198 were true. Mazda also increased the redline from 6,800 RPM to 7,500. It is unclear how this will impact the power delivery of the car, but it appears the Miata is transforming into a mini-Honda S2000. Changes to the 2.0-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder are extensive and include lighter pistons and connecting rods, stiffer valve springs, and an enlarged exhaust port and manifold. Other changes to the car include a low-inertia dual-mass flywheel to absorb vibration, noise and harshness from the engine. The 2019 Miata will also be a bit more practical with a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, which is good news for tall drivers.

Some Mazda employees objected to adding a telescoping wheel because it would add weight, but the engineers changed the material in the upper steering column from steel to aluminum to offset any weight gain. The Japanese publication also showed off a new brown Caramel roof color, which should join the black and red options that are currently available. According to the review, the added power completely transforms the personality of the Miata. It appears that the rumors of a more powerful Miata are true, and we can't wait to get behind the wheel and drive it.