2008 Facelift
The MX-5 facelift was unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show and Science Museum in London, and later in 2009 Chicago Auto Show.
The Japanese model went on sale in December 9, 2008 at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers.
Major changes concern the restyled front which now incorporates elements from Mazda’s newer models like the larger grille and new head and fog lights. Further restyled elements are the side skirts, rear bumper and the tail lights. The soft-top Touring and Grand Touring models feature a mesh grille bordered by a chrome frame. The hardtop Roadster Coupe now features a mesh grille bordered by a chrome frame and chrome elements inside the headlamps and outer door handles.
The instrument panel gained darker features and redesigned graphics for the gauges. To create more leg space in the cabin, a protrusion from the door pockets was eliminated.
The 2.0-litre engine was rated 167 bhp (125 kW; 169 PS) at 7,200 rpm and 140 lb·ft (190 N·m) at 5,000 rpm for 5-speed manual, 158 bhp (118 kW; 160 PS) at 6,700 rpm and 140 lb·ft (190 N·m) at 5,000 rpm for automatic. Engine redline was raised by 500 rpm to 7,200 rpm in manual model. The suspension and gearbox have been fine-tuned; latter offers smoother shifts and automatic transmission will be introduced in Europe for the first time.
Read more about this topic: Mazda MX5, Second Generation (NB)