The Mazda MX-5 has been updated for the 2020 model year with a selection of specification and colour updates, available from next month. Its underlying mechanical elements remain unchanged, with both the 1.5-litre and 2-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder versions still available in soft-top or hard-top RF forms. 

New for both 2-litre MX-5s is a range-topping GT Sport Tech model, which adds a fresh set of 17-inch gunmetal grey BBS wheels and black mirror caps to the exterior specification. Inside, the sand-coloured interior of the previous flagship GT Sport Roadster has been replaced with dark red, which maybe wisely can’t be combined with the Mazda’s hero shade, Soul Red. 

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Instead, Mazda has instead introduced the new Mazda 3’s Polymetal Grey colour, which will act as the new hero colour combination for the little roadster. Other updates across the model range include a new Sport Tech model sat underneath the GT Sport Tech, both of which now feature adaptive LED headlights and a reversing camera – items previously reserved for the top-spec model. Active safety features have also been updated across the range.

The MX-5’s simple and satisfying mechanical package is otherwise unchanged, including the same brilliant naturally-aspirated engines, fabulous six-speed manual transmission and playfully exuberant chassis.

Prices remain mostly unchanged, with entry-level models starting at £23,795 and topping out at £29,895 for the full-loaded GT Sport Tech. Equivalent RF cost an extra £1900, and offer the option of a six-speed automatic, although with such a sweet shift on the manual, it’s an option we’d suggest is best avoided.