Europe’s Supply Of Mazda MX-5s To Get Cut By 20 Percent In 2020

Although the Mazda MX-5 remains one of the most popular sports cars in Europe, its sales are expected to drop by 20 percent in 2020.

The main reason for that is Mazda’s decision to supply fewer 2.0-liter models as the automaker fears it won’t meet the EU’s CO2 fleet average targets. The MX-5’s optional 2.0-liter engine emits more than 155 g/km of CO2, whereas the base 1.5-liter unit is rated at 138 g/km.

According to a report from Financial Times, some versions of the Mazda MX-5 will be discontinued in Europe and dealers have been told to expect a reduction in sales of around 20 percent.

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European-spec Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary

Mazda UK has confirmed that it will focus on the 1.5-liter version of the MX-5 roadster in 2020. The subsidiary added that UK supplies of the 2.0-liter model will be significantly limited in 2020 because of CO2 fleet average targets and currency fluctuations.

“We take a number of factors into consideration – not just the CO2 targets but also customer trends, pricing and currency exchange rates. But it is fair to say, yes, that there will be reduced supply of the 2.0-litre MX-5 in 2020,” a Mazda UK spokesman told Auto Express. Mazda HQ reportedly told its UK dealers to expect a fall of around 13 percent in overall sales volume next year.

European-spec Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary

The reduced supply of Mazda MX-5 2.0 is only one of many adjustments to car engine lineups 2020 will bring in Europe as automakers try to avoid the EU’s CO2 penalties and comply with the new, stricter emission standards.

Mind you, it remains to be seen how the market will receive these artificial adjustments that don’t necessarily reflect customer demand. Some automakers are concerned that buyers will be pushed into vehicles that are not fully compliant, at potentially higher prices.