Mazda Revamps the Miata: More Power Arrives for the First Time in a Decade

The Japanese brand unveils the most aggressive modern Miata yet, with more power, improved aero, and extremely limited production.

Mazda Finally Listens to the Purists

Mazda has been hinting at it for years, and it has finally delivered: the Miata gets more power. It happens through the new Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster 12R, a special edition presented in Japan that represents the most ambitious leap since the ND’s debut in 2015. The iconic lightweight roadster, a true benchmark among compact sports cars, finally receives real mechanical upgrades—not just chassis or design tweaks.

The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G now reaches 197 hp, the biggest jump since the Miata went from 155 to 181 hp six years ago. Mazda admits that those 16 extra hp may sound modest on paper, but in a car barely over one ton, the difference is immediately noticeable. The gain comes from upgrades to the intake, exhaust, cylinder heads, pistons, and camshafts—a meticulous refinement that is typical of the brand.

Lighter, Sharper, and Packed With Track DNA

But power isn’t the only headline. The 12R arrives with a dedicated aerodynamic kit, forged Rays TE37 wheels, Yokohama Advan AD09 tires, Brembo brakes, a Fujitsubo exhaust, rear spoiler, and height-adjustable Bilstein dampers. It also debuts a new Aero Gray paint finish and a series of exclusive styling elements that set it apart from any other MX-5.

Inside, the racing focus continues with the steering wheel, center console, handbrake, and gear knob wrapped in Alcantara, along with Recaro bucket seats paired with Sabelt four-point harnesses. Each unit carries a numbered plaque on the engine and the distinctive “12R” badge on the rear.

A Collector’s Piece Limited to Just 200 Units

Mazda will build only 200 units, each priced at seven million yen (around $44,300 at current exchange rates). Orders will open in Japan this fall, and if demand exceeds supply —which is almost guaranteed— Mazda will hold a lottery to determine the lucky 200 buyers.

And for those who miss out, Mazda will also release a more widely produced Spirit Racing Roadster, sharing all the handling upgrades but without the extra power, the Fujitsubo exhaust, or the Recaro seats. Production of this version will begin in mid-2025.

The Miata Lives On… and Is More Exciting Than Ever

With this move, Mazda proves that it remains committed to pure sports cars in the age of electrification. The most powerful modern Miata yet confirms that Mazda still embraces its “Zoom-Zoom” philosophy, focused on lightness, precision, and driving pleasure. For enthusiasts of classic, modern, or even F1-inspired performance machines, this is a true celebration: the Miata isn’t just alive — it’s coming back stronger.