top of page

MK3.5 NC2 2009-2013

MX-5 NC2 2010.jpg

The third-generation MX-5 received a significant facelift in 2009, often dubbed the ‘Mk3.5’. Its new headlights and grille design gave the little roadster a wide-eyed grin that perhaps detracted from what turned out to be a much better car than early Mk3s. Handling tweaks finally improved the car’s balance, revisions to the electric steering delivered more feel, and the engines, while delivering the same outputs as before, both sounded a little better and offered improved economy.Text

 

In February 2011 one particular NC rolled out of the factory in Hiroshima as Mazda’s 900,000th MX-5 (the millionth would arrive with the fourth-generation MX-5 in April 2016). This reflected the slowdown in MX-5 sales over time – the half-millionth MX-5 had arrived in under ten years from the very first car, yet it took 12 years to only get four-fifths of the way there to the next half-million. Despite this, over its ten years in production Mazda would still build nearly 230,000 NC MX-5s, illustrating its popularity overall.

​

Mk3.5 (NC-FL)

2009-2013

At a glance

  • New front bumper with enlarged grille and leaf-shaped trim elements either side

  • Clear indicator lenses front and back

  • Upgraded 2.0-litre engine with stronger internal parts and raised redline

  • Improved handling and suspension geometry

  • Six-speed automatic gearbox option added

Timed to coincide with the MX5’s 20th anniversary, the Mk3 was facelifted for 2009 into a model often called the Mk3.5 or NC-FL. The main way to spot the difference from the original Mk3 is the bigger grille in the front bumper, replacing the Mk1-style oval one on the Mk3. ‘Leaf’ shaped trim elements either side are another obvious ‘tell’ and the lights are different front and back and feature clear indicator lenses. Trim was revised inside and an LCD trip computer included.

While the engine range – and power outputs – remained as before with a choice of 126ps 1.8 and 160ps and the option of five- or six-speed manuals the 2.0-litre engine in the Mk3.5 got some significant upgrades, including a stronger forged crankshaft, ‘floating’ pistons, stronger valve springs and a redline raised by 500rpm to 7,500rpm. A new ‘sound generator’ was also included on the bigger engine, amplifying induction noise via a special duct in the dashboard.

Suspension geometry was also revised, with a lower front roll centre and other tweaks to make the car feel more natural in its responses. Manuals remain the preferred option and the Sport once again got the six-speed version but the six-speed automatic introduced to the UK market with the Mk3.5 is a more viable option, helped with the addition of shifter paddles on the steering wheel if you want to change gear yourself.

For enthusiasts in the market now the 2.0 Sport remains the most attractive option, given it pairs the Bilstein dampers with the limited-slip differential included on all 2.0-litre models. Across the range equipment was improved with a more luxurious feel. Special editions of the NC facelift include the 20th Anniversary, and the Miyako.

bottom of page