Mazda has officially discontinued the 2.0-liter engine in the Miata for the European market due to strict emissions regulations. However, the UK, which is no longer part of the European Union, will still have access to the larger engine. The smaller 1.5-liter unit will now be the only engine available in most European countries. The announcement was made during a press event in Croatia a few weeks ago.
While the 2.0-liter engine is no longer available for order in Europe, Mazda has mentioned that there are still a few cars left in stock with the larger engine. Once these cars are sold, the 2.0-liter engine option will be permanently discontinued. The 1.5-liter engine, which was never sold in the United States, offers 129 horsepower and 111 pound-feet of torque, which is less than the bigger engine but results in a slightly lighter car. The smaller engine is known for its rev-happy character, especially during the initial ND1 years, and is also more affordable.
There is uncertainty about whether Mazda will offer a Miata with a larger engine in Europe in the future. The next-generation model may be electrified to some extent, allowing for the installation of a larger engine while still meeting emissions regulations. However, it is too early to confirm this possibility. The recently launched ND3 model is expected to stay in production for a while, with a 35th Anniversary Edition set to be released later this year. If this edition only comes with the 2.0-liter engine, it will be unavailable in Europe.
In 2024, European customers looking for relatively affordable sports cars may face challenges as the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ will no longer be available due to the new General Safety Regulations 2 (GSR2), unlike the Miata’s discontinuation caused by emissions regulations. This signifies a significant shift in the European sports car market.
While the Miata’s larger engine will no longer be an option in Europe, customers can still enjoy the smaller 1.5-liter unit, which offers a unique driving experience and remains a popular choice among enthusiasts. The future of the Miata in Europe may involve electrification and potentially a return to a larger engine option, but for now, fans will need to appreciate the current lineup and the remaining stock of cars with the 2.0-liter engine.