Incorporating Mazda's Skyactiv technology, the MX-5 is offered with two naturally aspirated direct-injection petrol engines.

It features a rigid roof and buttresses that give the car a more coupé-like silhouette than the soft top convertible.

These models included BBS alloy wheels, a twin-tone roof, black door mirrors and rear spoiler as well as Recaro seats.

[17] It was the first time since the original NA series MX-5 was available with a companion body style since the Mazda MX-3, which was a liftback sport coupe.

In late 2018, for the 2019 model year, the 2.0-litre engine was revised to generate 135 kW (181 hp; 184 PS) and 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) of torque, with the redline increased to 7,500 rpm, and a dual-mass flywheel was introduced to the powertrain.

Interior upgrades include a telescoping steering column, a standard reverse camera, a reworked door opening mechanism, revised seat controls, and redesigned cupholders.

In December 2021, Mazda said the 2022 MX-5 would improve steering and body roll during hard cornering by braking the inner rear wheel.

[20]In February 2024, the ND3 received new headlights with daytime running lamps and taillights with reverse lights, a new type of limited-slip differential, a revised steering rack, and a minor facelift.

A 'dynamic stability control - track' mode could be enabled to partially disable the limited-slip differential and let the car sideslip more.

Primary differences from the Mazda was a 1.4 litre, turbocharged engine with 127 kW (170 hp) and distinctive front and rear lights.

It was available in Meteor Grey Mica or Crystal White Pearlescent and featured chequered decals along the sides along with Soul Red paint on the front air dam, mirror caps and spoiler, finished with 16-inch gunmetal alloy wheels.

[25] Inspired by the 1966 film The Endless Summer, this one-off collaboration with Garage Italia Customs features a unique indigo blue and bright orange gradient paint job.

[26] The Z-Sport is characterized by its exclusive combination of 17-inch BBS alloy wheels, Machine Grey paint, and a cherry-red soft top.

[27] This Italy-exclusive model was a tribute to Mazda MX-5 Ambassador Nobuhiro Yamamoto and was only available with the 1.5 L engine and in Jet Black with red highlights.

The "100 YEARS 1920–2020" anniversary logo is imprinted on the seat headrests, the key fob, and central wheel caps.

The special edition Mazda MX-5 features a range of technical and mechanical enhancements designed for optimal track performance.

These include an improved suspension setup for track use, additional chassis bracing, more aggressive geometry settings, and a Bastuck exhaust system.

Other unique touches include a painted key fob cover and engraved "FLAT OUT" emblems on the trunk lid.

In the Euro NCAP safety test, the MX-5 suffered from a malfunctioning driver's airbag, which was unable to prevent the dummy from hitting the steering wheel.

Jeremy Clarkson, in his "Driving" column of The Sunday Times, gave the car five out of five stars, calling it an "engineering gem."