The wait is almost over, with Australian Mazda MX-5 production beginning today - ahead of the sport car's arrival in August - at the Ujina plant near Mazda's headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan.

The All-New MX-5 weighs from just 1,009kg, a reduction of 91kg over the outgoing 2.0 litre car and close to the weight of the original 1989 NA model.

Measuring 3,915mm long, 1,730mm wide, 1,235mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,315mm, and front and rear overhang reduced to 760mm and 840mm respectively - which makes the ND the shortest MX-5 ever built.

Smaller, lighter and more focused, the All-New MX-5 is purpose-built with one goal in mind: providing the fun and wind-in-the-hair driving experience that only the MX-5 can deliver.

The MX-5's lighter weight, enhanced technologies and greater performance will ensure that the 26th year of the MX-5 will be just as exciting from behind the wheel as the first 25 have been.

Martin Benders, managing director of Mazda Australia said, "Confirmation that Australian production has kicked off today is great news for our national dealer network and all of us at Mazda Australia.

"We have 16,000 registrations of interest for this fourth generation of the world's top-selling roadster.

"The fact that this level of interest has been generated in just a few weeks since commencing our pre-launch communications, shows the level of passion and excitement that the All-New MX-5 generates"

To register interest or to win an All-New Mazda MX-5, including an ultimate driver's getaway, go to allnewmazdamx5.com.au

Connect with All-New Mazda MX-5 via Facebook, Twitter & Instagram with #lookupmx5

For further information, please contact:

Karla Leach
Senior Manager - Public Relations
T: (03) 8540 1931
F: (03) 8540 1960
M: 0448 346 213
E: kleach@mazda.com.au

Tony Mee
Public Relations Specialist
T: (03) 8540 1962
F: (03) 8540 1960
M: 0439 347 658
E: tmee@mazda.com.au