It was only a matter of time, but Mazda has formally announced that by next year, the Global Mazda MX-5 Cup will move over to the more powerful 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G motor.

Using several tweaks including altered camshafts and valve size, lighter pistons and connecting rods, the new Global Mazda MX-5 Cup car makes 181 horsepower while also significantly raising the redline to 7,500 rpm.

The same engine is also found in the road-going 2019 model year versions of the MX-5 soft top and MX-5 RF.

Aside from the new engine, the 2019 Global Mazda MX-5 Cup car will feature a revised transmission and improvements to both its cooling and electronic systems, including the use of a new Bosch ECU.

The best news is that current Global Mazda MX-5 Cup racers need not buy an entirely new car which cost USD 68,000 (~ P 3.61 million) from their exclusive partner, Long Road Racing. Mazda says “upgrade kits” can be purchased from Mazda Motorsports.

“The newest Global MX-5 Cup follows the lead of the recent enhancements made to the Mazda MX-5,” said John Doonan, Director, Mazda Motorsports. “Our customers can expect a faster, more cost-effective, reliable car that will provide many seasons of racing enjoyment. Everyone at Mazda is anticipating the 30th anniversary of the Mazda Miata, the world’s most popular sports car, in 2019 and the level of competition in the Global Mazda MX-5 Cup is a testament to the work that the designers and engineers at Mazda put into this car.”