The Mazda MX-5 isn’t one of the cars you expect to be updated with every model year and the 2021 model year isn’t an exception. The only new features the 2021 Mazda MX-5 is introducing is the option of wireless Apple CarPlay, as well as new color options. The first examples of the 2021 MX-5 will arrive at Mazda dealers as early as this month.

The 2021 Mazda MX-5 will start at US$ 26,830, a modest US$ 250 increase over last year’s starting price, in the base Sport trim with a six-speed manual transmission. The engine remains the same, meaning a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder unit with 181 HP and 151 lb-ft of torque.

 

The entry-level 2021 Mazda MX-5 Sport comes with a seven-inch Connect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system with HD radio, a leather steering wheel-shift knob-handbrake combo, keyless entry, the company’s i-Activsense safety suite, 16-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights and taillights among other.

Moving up the ladder, you can choose either the sportier MX-5 Club or the luxurious MX-5 Grand Touring, which are also the only two trim levels available with the RF retractable hard-top. When fitted with the six-speed manual, the Club and Grand Touring models also feature a limited-slip differential, Bilstein dampers, a front shock tower brace, and a sport-tuned suspension.

 

The MX-5 Club also features black cloth heated seats, 17-inch black alloy wheels, a front air dam, a black rear spoiler, with customers able to add the Brembo/BBS/Recaro optional package, which features better brakes, BBS 17-inch dark gunmetal forged wheels, heated Recaros, red brake calipers, and a black aero kit.

For 2021, the Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring offers a new exterior color option, Deep Crystal Blue, as well as White Nappa leather for the interior. The spec list here includes the aforementioned wireless Apple CarPlay together with a three-month SiriusXM trial subscription and a three-year traffic and travel link subscription, heated leather seats, a navigation system, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and more.