The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata receives a newly refined powertrain, an available brown soft top. Numerous customer-driven improvements include a new rearview camera and more available i-ACTIVSENSE safety equipment.

Mazda's engineers enriched the 2019 MX-5's SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine with the goals of improved response, performance, feel and efficiency. The net results are 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm -- a 17-percent improvement -- and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, with a richer torque curve throughout MX-5's entire rev range.

Speaking of rev range, redline has increased from 6,800 rpm to 7,500 rpm. Engineers were able to increase performance through several means, including: Reducing internal mass and friction; Reducing exhaust loss; Improved combustion; Dual-mass flywheel; and new final drive ratio.

As a result of numerous changes, MX-5 is quicker, more responsive and aims to be more engaging to drive.

Beyond engine improvements, the 2019 MX-5 introduces an available brown canvas soft top, new black metallic 17-inch wheels, a newly telescoping steering wheel, easier-to-open doors and revised door stops and revised cupholders and seat levers.

On the safety front, the new MX-5 is sold with a new, standard rearview camera and newly available features such as Traffic Sign Recognition and Smart City Brake Support in addition to other i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies found throughout various trim levels.

In the process of gaining many new features, the 2019 MX-5 gains just 7 lbs. from previous models, owing to a strict adherence to Mazda's "Gram Strategy" and ingenious solutions like adopting an aluminum steering shaft in place of the previous steel unit.