Mazda MX-5 (2012) facelift pictures

Updated 2012 Mazda MX-5s have begun rolling off the company's production line in Hiroshima, Japan. The updates improve brake and throttle reponse, pedestrian safety, and give the MX-5 a slightly wider-mouthed look.

The more aggressive front grille design is more aerodynamically efficient, according to Mazda. The only other cosmetic changes are a new shade of metallic grey paint, and updated steering wheel spoke design.

Thankfully, the changes under the skin are less subtle and should improve on the MX-5's driver-satisfaction scale.

Just enough to make the back-to-basics roadster more tactile, reckons Mazda. This has been acheived through modifying the throttle pedal response on manual transmission models.

It's said to make acceleration feel more linear, with improvements particularly noticeable when accelerating from low speed.

Thankfully the brakes should be up to the job of hauling you to a halt if the MX-5's improved throttle spurs you on too much. The characteristics of the vacuum brake-booster have been revised to optimise brake return control.

Jargon, yes, but essentially the brakes should be more confidence-inspiring and that bit easier to modulate. We'll find out for sure when we drive the new 2012 MX-5 soon.

A pop-up bonnet is now standard, increasing the crush room for the unfortunate victim should the car hit a pedestrian. The front bumper is also kinder to hapless jaywalkers' legs, too.

Sales of the updated MX-5 start later in 2012 in the UK, though there's no confirmation from Mazda as to whether the world's favourite roadster will incur a price increase to boot.

By Ollie Kew