2016 Mazda MX-5: More Distinctive and Deluxe
Following months of speculation and rumours, the new, fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 was unveiled at three simultaneous events held in Tokyo, Barcelona and Monterey. To celebrate the newest edition of the world’s most popular roadster, Mazda organized a private event in Monterey with Duran Duran, the group that topped the charts when the Miata first launched at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show.
The new MX-5, which will be released in 2015, incorporates SKYACTIV technology and the Kodo design philosophy adopted for the CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3. But it also preserves the main characteristics of the very first Miata. “Innovating in order to preserve” was the principle that guided the engineers and designers who worked on this new version of the car that best represents the brand’s philosophy. In a sense it’s a return to the car’s roots, as the new vehicle is the most compact of all MX-5 generations and weighs 100 kg less than the third-gen.
When the 2016 MX-5 was presented, Mazda management didn’t specify the displacement of the inline-four that will be used on the North American models. They simply stated that the gas-powered SKYACTIV-G engines have direct injection and are positioned in a front-centre position. They also mentioned that the six-speed manual and automatic transmissions were updated and that the MX-5 achieves perfect balance with equal weight distribution in front and back. The hood, trunk cover, front fenders and front and rear bumper reinforcements are made of aluminum, while the soft top is lighter than before.
These elements, combined with other features, result in a lower centre of gravity and a shorter polar moment of inertia, which should in turn result in a balanced and very predictable ride. The new MX-5’s relationship with the ground is managed by a double wishbone suspension up front and a MacPherson strut suspension in back.
Creating the fourth-generation MX-5’s style was a big challenge for Derek Jenkins, Director of Design, and his team. He admitted to us that his fear of getting it wrong became his main source of motivation. During his short presentation, Jenkins explained that the first step for his team was to meet with MX-5 owners and ask them what they hoped to see in the next model. Their feedback boiled down to the following: a more modern and more aggressive look with a more deluxe interior. In Jenkin’s words: “We decided to create a front hood that plunged dramatically toward the front and to draw a line that starts at the front fender and extends right to the back of the car—and especially to ensure that this line rises up to the rear fenders as an indication that the engine power is transmitted to the rear wheels.”
All MX-5s will come with black trim around the windshield and side view mirrors. Also, the headlamps, daytime running lights and fog lamps will all have LEDs, which explains why the light clusters are so small, creating a style that enhances the distinctive character of this new model. Meanwhile, the interior features much better quality materials and a more modern layout for the centre console.
At first glance, you can’t help but think that the new MX-5’s front section looks a lot like a Maserati, while the rear section evokes recent Jaguar F-Type convertibles and coupes. One thing is for sure: the vehicle is much more striking in person than in pictures. If the new model’s technical specs are as hot as its design, the latest MX-5 is sure to fan the flames of the fire ignited by the very first Miata.