iRacing has released a new video showcasing the extensively refreshed Mazda MX-5 arriving with the 2026 Season 4 update, including major changes to its physics, suspension, tyres, aerodynamics and visuals. The popular rookie sports car will remain free content included with an iRacing membership.
The dedicated Mazda MX-5 video was published by iRacing on September 6, giving drivers a closer look at one of the most significant car updates included in the upcoming Season 4 build.
While the video is new, the refresh itself was first detailed in iRacing’s August Development Update on August 28. At the time, the developer described the work as a complete re-engineering of the car “from bumper to bumper”.
What is changing with the iRacing Mazda MX-5?
The Mazda MX-5 will move to iRacing’s enhanced suspension kinematics system, while the engine and driveline efficiencies have also been revised to better represent the current specification of the real-world car.
Latest-spec dampers have been implemented alongside iRacing’s latest tyre model, with handling development carried out using both professional MX-5 drivers and iRacing’s internal development drivers.
Aerodynamics and the damage model have also been updated, with particular attention paid to drafting and bump drafting. According to iRacing, the changes should result in a more intuitive driving feel, smoother behaviour when catching slides and more predictable door-to-door racing.
The physics changes are accompanied by a complete artwork refresh designed to bring the virtual MX-5 closer to the current appearance of the real racing car.
More technical details can be found in the August 2026 Development Update.
The Mazda MX-5 remains free iRacing content
Importantly, the refreshed Mazda MX-5 remains part of iRacing’s base content rather than becoming a separate paid car.
The MX-5 has traditionally been one of the most important cars for new road racers on the service, forming the basis of the rookie Mazda MX-5 Cup while also remaining popular with experienced drivers through more advanced competition.
That makes the refresh particularly significant. Rather than focusing exclusively on new paid cars for Season 4, iRacing is applying some of its latest physics and vehicle-development technology to a car available to every subscriber.
New drivers can access the Mazda and the rest of iRacing’s included base content with an iRacing membership.
Coming with iRacing 2026 Season 4
The Mazda MX-5 refresh will arrive as part of the 2026 Season 4 update, which includes a much broader collection of physics, content and simulation changes.
Other Season 4 improvements already confirmed by iRacing include its new multi-threaded Physics Islands architecture, updated VFX, multi-class start improvements and several additional car and track updates.
For Mazda drivers, however, the MX-5 overhaul could be one of the most immediately noticeable changes. Its basic role within iRacing remains the same, but much of the simulation underneath the car has been rebuilt.
See you on the track!
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