Fourth-Gen Mazda MX-5 is Entering Second Decade With Few Changes

In addition to being by far one of the most fun cars to drive and one of the top-rated vehicles according to our team here at The Car Guide, the Mazda MX-5 is also a timeless classic. Case in point: the fourth-generation model debuted ten years ago as a 2016 model and recently posted a 1.2% increase in annual Canadian sales.

Now entering its second decade, the little Japanese roadster doesn’t change much for 2026. Naturally, the 35th Anniversary Edition introduced last year is not returning.

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Once again, the entry-level MX-5 GS is available with a black fabric soft top and a six-speed manual gearbox exclusively, while the higher-spec GS-P and GT models offer the choice of a soft top or body-coloured retractable hardtop (RF) as well as a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

For 2026, all MX-5 GS-P models now come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity paired with a nine-speaker Bose audio system. Selecting the Sport package (manual transmission only) adds Brembo front brakes, red front and rear calipers, 17-inch forged BBS wheels with a gunmetal finish, and heated Recaro sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather and Alcantara, along with new Alcantara dashboard trim.

Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line MX-5 RF GT with Grand Sport package (manual transmission only) stands out with tan Nappa leather sport seats, contrasting top in gloss black, Brembo front brakes, red-painted front and rear calipers, gloss black mirror caps, and 17-inch BBS forged wheels with a gunmetal finish.

No matter which MX-5 you pick, the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine under the hood produces 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The manual transmission is the one we wholeheartedly recommend, but those who opt for the autobox (at no extra cost) still benefit from paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

We’ll now leave you with pricing details for the 2026 Mazda MX-5. The figures listed below are MSRPs and do not include $2,095 freight and PDI. They’re up $250 compared to the 2025 prices.