The Mazda MX-5 Miata Pure Sport has been tested in Japan, revealing how the exclusive special-edition roadster improves the driving experience with revised suspension, sharper steering feel and lighter wheels.
Mazda MX-5 Miata Pure Sport Focuses on Driving Performance
Every generation of the Mazda MX-5 Miata has followed a familiar formula built around a lightweight, compact two-door roadster, communicative handling and a carefully balanced amount of power. The current ND generation has been on the market for some time but remains highly regarded by loyalists and car enthusiasts.
In Japan, Mazda unveiled the exclusive Pure Sport (PS) special edition last June. The model is designed to deliver a more focused and engaging version of the MX-5 Miata, and a new test-drive report provides additional insight into its performance.
Lighter Wheels and Revised Suspension Sharpen the MX-5
Japanese publication Kuruma News recently published an exclusive test-drive report on the Mazda MX-5 Miata Pure Sport. The special-edition model receives several upgrades aimed at improving its sporty driving performance.
Among the changes are newly tuned suspension components, silver-painted 4-piston Brembo calipers and lighter forged RAYS rims. The lighter wheels reduce the car’s overall weight by around 44 pounds.
The test-drive report highlighted the Pure Sport’s steering feel as one of its most noticeable improvements. Mazda revised the power steering system to provide more pronounced tire feedback, giving the driver greater feel through the steering wheel.
The Pure Sport also uses quieter road tires to meet new, stricter noise regulations, complementing the changes to the steering system.
Pure Sport Tuned for Advanced Drivers
According to the report, the Mazda MX-5 Miata Pure Sport is aimed more toward advanced drivers, with its handling tuned to allow the chassis to manage higher speeds through corners.
The report also praised the model’s ride compared with lower versions, noting that its lighter body likely contributes to the improvement. Inside, the Pure Sport was also praised for its driver-centric interior.
Six-Speed Manual Keeps the Focus on Driving
The Pure Sport stands out with a 6-speed manual transmission, reinforcing its focus on direct driver control.
For now, however, the special edition remains exclusive to Japan. It costs 3,663,000 yen, equivalent to $23,000 when converted.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata Pure Sport has already drawn praise in testing for its driver-focused upgrades, while its availability remains limited to the Japanese market.
