Mazda Preparing New MX-5 for 2015 Launch

MazdaMazdaJapan, 1920 > present80 models
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7 videos
and Alfa RomeoAlfa RomeoItaly, 1910 > present108 models
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signed off on the platform for the next generation MX-5 MiataMazda MX-5Japan, 1989 > present4 series
79 versions
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and SpiderAlfa Romeo SpiderItaly, 1966 > 19934 series
9 versions
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last year, and Mazda is targeting 2015 for the launch of the next generation roadster. It will be the biggest change to the MX-5 in the model’s history.

Mazda plans for the next generation car to be clean and simple with a long hood and crisp, modern lines. The front axle is pushed forward to give the car a shorter front overhang. Despite the longer wheelbase, overall length will only increase slightly. It will be a new interpretation of Mazda’s Kodo design language and maintain the rounded face that the Miata has always shown.

“It won’t be like the Mazda 3 or 6. Kodo can express our range in different ways. My intent is to make it tighter looking visually, but still to have a strong presence,” said the Ikuo Maeda, the project’s design chief.

It will be offered in soft top and retractable, hard top body styles, but the soft top will only be available at launch.

The MX-5 will share the 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter displacements of Mazda’s SkyActiv engines. The future high compression versions may not fit due to its longer exhaust manifold. Compared to the aging engines in the current MX-5, Mazda thinks the new car will be a third more efficient.

Mazda no longer thinks that it can reach a 2,205lb (1,000kg) curb weight for the car, but it is trying to keep weight below 2,425lb (1,100kg), 55lb (25kg) less than the current lightest MX-5.

A concept for the car is possible as soon as the Chicago Auto Show in February. Mazda unveiled the original car there in 1989.

Mazda says that the MX-5 platform may be used for a next generation RX-7Mazda RX-7Japan, 1978 > 20023 series
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sports coupe later. Although, it will likely drop the rotary engine because it is difficult to engineer for fuel economy and emissions. Instead, it will use a conventional internal combustion engine with about 250hp.

Source: Autocar (1,2)