![Mazda Launches Subtly Revamped MX-5 Roadster and Roadster Coupe in Europe [61 Photos]](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Mazda-MX-5-Facelift-2012-51.jpg)
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it; the MX-5, which is the world’s best-selling roadster, surely ain’t broke, but its third generation, code-named NC, has been in the market since 2005, so Mazda figured that a light facelift was in order.
The updated MX-5, which made its debut in September’s Paris Auto Show, goes on sale in Europe as of now. Available in both soft- and retractable hard-top versions named Roadster and Roadster Coupe respectively, it sports a more aggressively styled front bumper with a new grille and fog lamp bezels.
Buyers can choose between eight body colors, which include the new “Dolphin Grey”, while the cabin has received glossy dark steering wheel spokes and panels.
The MX-5‘s engine line-up remains the same and it consists of a 126 PS 1.8-liter with a five-speed manual gearbox and a 2.0-liter with 160 PS and a six-speed manual or, optionally, automatic transmission.
Mazda’s engineers have fine-tuned the acceleration management program on manual gearbox-equipped models to improve throttle response, especially at low speeds. They have also optimized the vacuum brake booster for better braking.
The most notable change, from an engineering point of view, is the addition of a new “active” bonnet system that automatically pops the hood in case of a collision with a pedestrian, preventing or lessening the severity of the impact.
Moreover, the lower section of the front bumper has been reinforced so as to offer better protection for pedestrians’ legs.
By Andrew Tsaousis
PHOTO GALLERY
