Mazda May Offer Diesel Option for Next Gen MX-5

The next generation MazdaMazdaJapan, 1920 > present80 models
2325 photos
7 videos
and Alfa RomeoAlfa RomeoItaly, 1910 > present108 models
2257 photos
7 videos
SpiderAlfa Romeo SpiderItaly, 1966 > 19934 series
9 versions
36 photos
is still several years away. The two companies only signed off on the shared platform in January, but the message has always been that the two cars will not share engines between them. New rumors suggest that Mazda may use its SkyActiv diesel as an engine option in the next generation car. 

The diesel would provide better torque and fuel economy for the MX-5, but it would take away some of the car's neo-Lotus ElanLotus Elan Gen.1United Kingdom, 1962 > 197512 versions
15 photos
1 video
inspiration. However, Mazda has made the original MX-5 the benchmark for the latest car in terms of size and weight, which means a curb weight of about 2,000lbs (907kg).

Alfa Romeo will likely have multiple engine options for the Spider as well with the 1750 TBi from the 4C as a possibility in the top model with 237hp. 

Both cars will be available with six-speed manual transmissions built by their respective companies. Alfa Romeo already has a dual clutch transmission in its stable that could be used in the Spider.

Source: Autocar