Mazda Finally Answers Fans: Miata Gets Major Power Upgrade

The Mazda MX-5 Miata now delivers 197 horsepower, breaking past the 190-horsepower barrier. This marks the car's most important power upgrade since 2015. The beloved roadster started with 155 horsepower at its ND generation launch. Mazda's Spirit Racing Roadster 12R special edition brings these improvements, with production limited to 200 units. The upgraded Miata features extensive modifications to its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine's intake, exhaust, cylinder heads, pistons, and camshafts. Mazda enhanced this limited-run model with an aerodynamic body kit, forged Rays TE37 lightweight wheels, and high-performance Brembo front brakes. These changes make it potentially the most exciting MX-5 variant yet.

Evolution of Miata Power

The ND generation Miata's power trip shows an impressive progression. Mazda launched the fourth-generation MX-5 in 2015 with a modest 155 horsepower from its 2.0-liter engine. The Mazda engineers made the most important improvements that led to several power increases:

1. Original Launch (2015): 155 horsepower
2. Mid-cycle Update (2019): 181 horsepower
3. Latest 12R Edition: 197 horsepower

The latest power boost required more than ECU adjustments. Mazda implemented detailed mechanical changes to reach this output. The 12R edition features specialized components with modified cams, revised cylinder heads, updated piston designs, and a new exhaust manifold.

This naturally aspirated engine reaches its peak power at 7,000 RPM. Mazda's steadfast dedication to high-revving performance continues without forced induction. The 12R variant comes only with a six-speed manual transmission, which preserves the pure driving experience of the Miata lineage.

Mazda enhanced more than just the engine. The 12R edition boasts height-adjustable dampers and Brembo brake calipers with larger rotors. The car also sports forged RAYS wheels with Yokohama Advan Neova AD09 tires, designed specifically for street and track use.

Technical Specifications Deep-Dive

The latest Miata's technical core reveals major upgrades in how it handles. A new steering rack with retuned power assist is the biggest change. It gives drivers better control and lets them cruise more comfortably.

The Club trim features a smart asymmetric limited-slip differential that changes its locking based on acceleration and deceleration. This advanced system helps drivers avoid oversteer during braking and reduces understeer when accelerating through corners.

The performance package shines with these features:

• Sport-tuned Bilstein dampers
• Front shock-tower brace
• Track Mode stability control with a higher intervention threshold

Fuel efficiency stays strong in all models. Manual transmission versions deliver 26 city/34 highway/29 combined MPG. Automatic models perform slightly better at 26 city/35 highway/29 combined MPG. These numbers show Mazda's dedication to mixing performance with practical efficiency.

Kinematic Posture Control, a software-based suspension technology, improves the driving experience by improving cornering. This system works perfectly with the upgraded electric power steering, giving sharper handling and better road feedback.

Premium Features and Upgrades

The latest MX-5 shows significant interior improvements that put comfort and technology at the forefront. A larger 8.8-inch infotainment display now has touch functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This model becomes the first Miata to integrate Alexa, which lets drivers control climate settings and audio systems hands-free.

Notable interior upgrades include:

• A redesigned gage cluster with high-contrast graphics
• Better center console padding
• Wireless Apple CarPlay (Club and Grand Touring trims)
• Bose nine-speaker premium audio system

The Club trim stands out as the enthusiast's pick with its Bilstein dampers and front shock tower brace. Black suede accents now complement the black cloth material in the seats, adding a premium touch.

The Grand Touring trim raises luxury standards with heated leather seats, automatic climate control, and a navigation system. The new tan Nappa leather seat option makes this trim even more appealing.

Drivers looking for exclusivity will appreciate the Brembo BBS Recaro package with its special features:

• Dark gunmetal 17-inch BBS forged wheels
• Red-painted brake calipers
• Heated Recaro sport seats
• Gloss black side sill extensions

The exterior gets subtle yet effective updates with new LED daytime running lights, updated LED taillights, and fresh wheel designs. A new Aero Gray exterior color creates an elegant contrast against the dark trim elements.

Conclusion

Mazda's latest MX-5 Miata development stands as their boldest upgrade yet. The Spirit Racing Roadster 12R pushes power to 197 horsepower, which marks a most important milestone. It stays true to the naturally aspirated character we've always loved. Without a doubt, the detailed mechanical improvements show Mazda's commitment to pure driving excellence. They've modified cylinder heads and added specialized camshafts.

The production run of just 200 units makes this Miata special. These rare examples blend track-ready performance with daily driving comfort. Premium interior refinements and modern technology create this balance. This latest version proves Mazda can improve performance without compromising the lightweight, balanced nature that made the Miata a legend.

This power upgrade delivers what fans have wanted and keeps the car's character intact. The Spirit Racing Roadster 12R embodies everything we love about the Miata. It combines lightweight design and precise handling with nearly 200 horsepower - enough to thrill performance enthusiasts.