It’s no secret that we, here at Double Apex, are fans of the Mazda MX-5. In fact, we have our own MX-5 racecar, which you can read about by clicking here.

We also happen to enjoy the latest version of the world’s best-selling roadster, but it seems that we’ll soon see the Mazda MX-5 upgraded.

Upgrade time

The most recent, fourth generation (ND), model has been with us for a few years already. While it garners praise by all and sundry, Mazda needs to make a few tweaks to keep buyers interested.

Several international websites are reporting that the ND is due for a mild upgrade and that Mazda will make the announcement in the next few weeks.

Click here to read how our very first driving experience of the ND almost caused an international incident.

More power

The credo of the MX-5 has always been about low mass rather than big power. But with 118 kW the current car could use a little more poke.

Reports suggest that the naturally aspirated 2,0-litre inline-four receives a new cylinder head, pistons and conrods. The result is 135 kW (up from 118) and a 5 N.m increase in torque to 205.

Particular attention was paid to improving torque throughout the rev range, according to Japanese reports. The redline has also been raised from 6 800 to 7 500 r/min.

The tall rejoice

Anyone taller than 6 feet (1,8 metres) complained that the steering wheel in the current model is too far away from them when the seat is pushed back.

Initially, Mazda engineers didn’t offer telescopic reach for the wheel as it added mass. With the power bumped up they’ve supposedly capitulated and now taller drivers will be able to pull the tiller out towards them. That should make for a more comfortable driving postion.