A NEW look Mazda MX-5 has made its debut at the Japan Mobility Show, and for the first time since the launch of the current generation MX-5 in 2015, the sports car has received a subtle exterior design change.

The 2024 MX-5 is marked out by a new LED headlight design that now incorporates the daytime running lights, while the rear LED lights have also been redesigned and a new Aero Grey paint colour has been added to the MX-5 line-up.

The new-look MX-5 was unveiled at the show alongside a concept sports car design that uses a dual rotary powertrain mated to an EV platform - a system seen in the new Mazda MX-30 R-EV.

Inside the new MX-5 the car now has a larger central 8.8-inch touch-screen multimedia display and an updated instrument panel. The larger central screen allows for clearer navigation mapping, while the more advanced MZ Connect system helps user functionality, additionally USB-C ports have been introduced.

As before, the MX-5 has wireless Apple CarPlay. The 2024 Mazda MX-5 also has a new frameless rear-view mirror but the interior retains the same driver focused cabin and driving position.

Over more than three decades and across four generations, the Mazda MX-5 has always been the benchmark pure lightweight sports car with driver engagement at the centre of its appeal.

Across all models, the new Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) track driving mode avoids intervention until a later parameter to deliver a more dynamic, yet secure, drive experience with first-time track drivers in mind.

Continuing the MX-5's fine-tuning, the response of the accelerator has been improved to deliver a more accurate throttle application, while the electric power steering has been adjusted and steering rack friction reduced to deliver an even more natural and fluid response.

As before 2.0-litre cars with the manual gearbox have a front strut brace, limited slip differential and Bilstein dampers as standard.

The 2024 MX-5 features a new Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential - a cam mechanism has been added to the conical clutch, which is lightweight, compact and highly durable.

There's also the introduction of additional safety features including lane-keep assistance and intelligent speed assistance on all models, while traffic sign recognition has been updated with improved signage recognition.

Arriving in the UK in March, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 continues the winning formula that has seen more than 25,000 fourth-generation MX-5s sold in the UK since its launch in 2015.

The 8-model range features an unchanged engine line-up with both the Roadster and Retractable Fastback RF models offered with a choice of 1.5-litre 132ps and 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engines.

Across both body styles, the Prime-Line model is matched to the 1.5-litre engine, the Exclusive-Line can be ordered with both the 1.5 and 2.0-litre engines, while the range-topping Homura sold exclusively with the 2.0-litre engine.

Commenting on the 2024 Mazda MX-5, Mazda UK managing director Jeremy Thomson said: "When it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has established itself as a benchmark sports car, and with the 2024 Mazda MX-5 we continue to offer one of the most exciting and satisfying to drive cars money can buy.

"Our engineers created a sports car that incorporates our ground-breaking Skyactiv technology, modern safety and superb efficiency with the driver focused enjoyment for which the MX-5 is loved. The MX-5 is Mazda's brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products.

"Mazda's unceasing commitment to refining the vehicle over its 30-year history is highlighted again with the subtle but focused updates to the 2024 MX-5, which ensure this car continues to be an affordable, engaging, world-class sports car".

Full UK pricing and specification of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 will be announced at a later date.

The concept car, called the Mazda Iconic SP, has a total power output of 320ps and the rotary engine can burn a variety of fuels, including hydrogen, making it unique technology that is ideal for sports car packages.

If the battery is charged with electricity derived from renewable energy, it is possible to drive in a virtually carbon-neutral state.

The engine is mounted in the centre of the car allowing for a low centre of gravity to deliver excellent driving performance.

Mazda says the Iconic SP is designed to adapt to a new era and shows the company's continued commitment to the creation of products that satisfy customers‘ love of driving and cars.