The 2019Mazda MX-5 has been substantially improved over the current model and boasts more power, more safety and upgraded technology.

Officially, Mazda says the new 2019 MX-5 will be unveiled in Japan towards the end of July 2018. The big changes can be found under the bonnet, withthe new MX-5 featuring an optimised air intake, new cylinder heads, revised pistons and different connecting rods. The reason behind these upgrades? Mazda claims they're lighter components which will increase the performance.

How do the numbers stack for the 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated SKYACTIV-G engine? With a redline now set at 7 500 rpm (previously 6 800 rpm), figures now stand at 135 kW and 205 Nm (previously 118 kW and 200 Nm). Naturally, the engine is cleaner and more efficient too. There are revisions to the 1.5-litre motor which never came to SA and that now offers up 97 kW and 152 Nm.

In terms of cabin changes, the car now features a revised TFT display and telescopic steering wheel as well as a whole host of standard safety equipment likeAdvanced Smart City Brake Support and a Lane Departure Warning System. There are options available such as a tan leather cabin, 16-inch alloy wheels and a brown fabric roof.

Mazda has discontinued sales of the MX-5 roadster in South Africa and now only offers the MX-5 RF automatic locally, which will have to do. We have our doubts as to whether we will see this latest MX-5 roadster in South Africa but based on previous driving experiences, we can only but hope that Mazda brings the roadster back to South Africa.

We'll have more info when the vehicle launches at the end of July 2018.

There's now an option for a tan interior in the 2019 Mazda MX-5, but the real headline news here is more power!

Related content

Extended Test: Mazda MX-5 [with Video]

Mazda MX-5 RF Automatic (2017) Quick Review

Mazda MX-5 (2015) Review

Abarth 124 Spider (2017) Quick Drive

Toyota 86 High (2017) Quick Review

Toyota 86 (2017) First Drive [with Video]

Want to buy a Mazda MX-5?

Browse through stock here