Mazda unveils new MX-5 04 | 09 | 2014
MAZDA HAS REVEALED the fourth-generation of its iconic roadster, the MX-5. Lighter, faster and sharper to look at, the new MX-5 goes on sale in the UK next July (click here to see more official photos of the new Mazda MX-5).
In addition to a brand new rear-wheel-drive chassis, the newcomer also gets two new petrol engines, all built using Mazda's pioneering SkyActiv technology.
Accordong to Mazda bosses, the latest version "returns to the original aims of the first generation car and embodying the fundamental pleasure of driving an open-top lightweight sports car in a product suited to today’s needs."
Lighter and smaller than the car it replaces — in contrast to the general tendency of new cars being larger than the generation they replace — Mazda has hinted they've been able to sgave "around 100kgs" from the weight of the previous model.
The bonnet, boot and front wings are now all made from aluminium and that, in addition to SkyActiv design slashing weight from the Mazda's chassis plus a lighter material used in the soft-top hood construction, all contribute to the loss of weight.
Though the new model's wheelbase has only been reduced by 15mm, it's 105mm shorter in overall length than the outgoing version: it's also 20mm lower, but — rather significantly — 10mm wider.
Mazda is remaining tightlipped about the powerplants slotted into the car, though it has confirmed they will boast SkyActiv technology. It is, however, likely there will be two new direct-injection petrol engines, a 1.5-litre and a 2.0-litre.
Already powering the latest Mazda3, both engines are understood to have been reworked and are likely to offer around 140bhp and 180bhp respectively. The changes promises superior power-to-weight ratios, extra performance and considerable fuel economy and CO2 advantages.
Designed primarily at the company’s Japanese headquarters under the direction of Ikuo Maeda, the interior of the new Mazda MX-5 remains a snug two-seater. Thankfully, it's also still possible to lower the manually operated soft-top hood with one hand.
The seating position remains sportily low, but according to Mazda the visibility has been improved as a result of the bonnet being lowered. It's also helped by the fact the A-pillars and windscreen header rail have also been made thinner.
The centre of the dash is dominated by a new infotainment screen, developed from that found in the Mazda3. As is the case with other Mazdas it’s also controlled by a rotary knob, nestling next to the conventional handbrake.
Fans of the original MkI MX-5 will delight in noticing the new model gets headrest-mounted speakers, intended to help maintain music volume with the roof down.
Mazda hasn't revealed any pricing yet for the new model — which will initially be available only as a soft-top, though a folding metal-roofed coupé, which currently accounts for 80% of sales in the UK, will follow later — but it's likely the entry-level 1.5 will set you back close to £20,000.
Related: Scots group No1 for Mazda
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Jim McGill