Mazda has officially pulled the wraps off of the 2013 model year update to its Japanese market Mazda Roadster, known elsewhere in the world as the MX-5 Miata.
The new Roadster gets a revised front end that further evolves the Nagare design language's trademark grin into something both that's more in line with the current generation of the Mazda3, but also less obviously a big happy face. A new front spoiler frames the Roadster's chin. It's a subtle change, as mid-cycle refreshes are wont to be. The rear end of the car appears to be completely unchanged.
Underneath the sheet metal, revisions have been made to the throttle management program of models with the manual transmission and to the brake assist in all models to improve control. Pedestrian safety is enhanced with a new "Active Bonnet" that pops up during frontal collisions to absorb energy and cushion against head trauma. Additionally, Mazda has shaved a mass here and there with new lighter parts in the front bumper, the active bonnet, the new 17-inch aluminum wheels, and even the internal wiring. Every gram counts, right?
The Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) and soft top Roadster models are distinguished by silver and black trim and detailing, respectively. This is most obvious when looking at the wheels; the soft top's rolling stock is obviously darker. Finally, the cabin gets a few new trim colors and materials.
This 2013 model (which still hasn't officially been announced for the U.S. market) should be the last revision that the Miata gets before getting the big overhaul we're expecting in 2014.