Driving purists had been calling for Mazda to add more grunt to its MX-5 sports car - and the manufacturer has duly obliged.
The impressive new engine and other worthwhile revisions were unveiled to the Telegraph & Argus and fellow members of the UK motoring media this week.
At the heart of the upgrade is a more powerful and higher-revving version of the 2.0-litre engine, featuring lighter pistons and con-rod, revisions to the camshafts and exhaust valves, fuel injectors, throttle valve and air intake.
The end result is a noticeable boost in performance, which came into its own on the undulating and twisty roads of rural Northern Ireland - the location chosen by Mazda for the launch event.
Skirting picturesque Lough Erne, the MX-5’s poise and power were more than a match for the road’s combination of sweeping open bends and tighter, more challenging corners.
When compared to its predecessor, the latest naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre engine has brought about an increase from 160ps to 184ps.
It’s an engine designed to be worked hard towards the higher end of the rev range, with the upgraded version offering a heightened redline, which has gone up from 6,800 to 7,500rpm.
On the convertible, the sprint from 0-62mph can now be achieved in 6.5 seconds - an improvement of 0.8 seconds.
For manual and automatic RF models, it’s a 0.6 and 0.5 second increase, respectively.
The great thing about the MX-5 is the fact you can work the engine hard through the slick six-speed manual box, reach high revs and feel fully engaged when cornering - while remaining comfortably within the speed limit.
Indeed, the two-seater car’s low stance on the road and suspension set-up combines with the wind-in-your-hair sensation to create a sense of fun that has you thinking you’re travelling faster than you really are.
The driving pleasure is further enhanced by revised tuning of the main silencer, which delivers a cleaner and more powerful engine note, although some might prefer it even louder still.
The steering is accurate and weighty, providing great feedback to the driver.
And the rear-wheel drive car’s balance through the bends inspires great confidence.
On occasions, the back end will start to step out as power is applied when emerging from a corner, but it’s a controlled process that can be ‘caught’ and corrected, as opposed to a sudden, jerky shock that catches you unawares.
The MX-5 now comes with increased safety equipment and cabin enhancements, while the car also now features telescopic steering adjustment and improved seat sliding operation to further enhance driver comfort.
With its distinctive appearance winning so many plaudits, it’s no surprise that the car’s design has been left alone. Simply put, it continues to look the part.
And the ease with which the roof can be unclipped and rolled back means you can feel closer to nature whenever the open-air vibe takes hold.
As a first time visitor to Ulster, it was ideal to get an unobstructed view of the varied landscape in areas such as County Fermanagh.
Feeling ‘at one’ with the countryside was a theme that continued through the trip, with Mazda identifying a quirky resort for the overnight stay which involved sleeping in bubble domes scattered around secluded woodland.
With the bubbles at Finn Lough having 180 degree transparent walls and roof, you couldn't get closer to nature, with the ethos behind the overnight accommodation perfectly mirroring the adventurous spirit of the MX-5.
During a press conference at the resort, Mazda UK Managing Director Jeremy Thomson said: “when it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has already established itself as a benchmark sports car, so with extra power, improved performance, more revs to enjoy and a sweeter exhaust note, the 2019 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G MX-5 will be more exciting and satisfying to drive than ever before.”
Mr Thomson added that Mazda was “dedicated” to the idea of keeping the MX-5 affordable, pointing out that the revised 2019 range is priced from £18,995. The most expensive version costs £29,195.
With its subtle yet significant revisions, there’s no doubt that a good car just got even better.
FAST FACTS
Mazda MX-5 Convertible SE-L Nav+
PRICE: £22,295
ENGINE: Petrol, four-cylinder in-line, DOHC, 16 valves producing 184ps
0-62Mmph: 6.5 seconds
TOP SPEED: 136MPH
TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual drivign rear wheels
FUEL ECONOMY: 40.9mpg combined
EMISSIONS: 156g/km
WARRANTY: 3 years/60,000 miles
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