The 2015 Mazda MX-5 has been priced from $31,990 +ORC) and will go on-sale in Australia from mid-August.

MAZDA HAS RELEASED pricing for the 2015 Mazda MX-5 saying it’s been “priced for fun”. When the original MX-5 launched here in 1989 it was listed from $29,990 (+ORC) which, says Mazda, if you take inflation etc into account, is the equivalent of around $59k in today’s money.  As a comparison, what looks to be the MX-5’s closest rival is Toyota 86 which starts from $29,990 plus onroads.

According to Mazda this new pricing “makes the ND (2015 model) the best-value MX-5 ever considering the NA (first-gen model) lacked Bluetooth, power steering, air conditioning, Anti-Lock Braking System, Traction Control, Cruise Control and SBS airbags – all of which are now standard features”.

Mazda Australia managing director Martin Benders said: “For those that know, love or own an MX-5, the arrival of an all-new model is always cause for excitement. 

“We believe that the sharp entry pricing for the new ND will inspire a new generation of younger MX-5 buyers to experience the freedom and enjoyment of open-top motoring.”

In production now, the Australian-spec entry-level Roadster and top-spec Roadster GT will be available in Australia with1.5 litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine and with a choice of either a SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic or SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission. The engine boasts 96kW and 150Nm of torque, the new MX-5 weighs from 1009kg, a reduction of 91kg over the outgoing 2.0-litre car and close to the 950kg weight of the NA. About 30% of that is out of the chassis and powertrain, 40% due to “structure innovation” and 30% due additional lightweight materials throughout the vehicle.  A 2.0 litre powered model will join the All-New MX-5 range late this year.

The ND is the shortest MX-5 ever built, measuring 3,915mm long, 1,730mm wide, 1,235mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,315mm, and front and rear overhang reduced to 760mm and 840mm respectively.