Mazda MX-5: A Turbo In The Works?
We’ve just come home from driving the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 prototype powered by a 131-horsepower 1.5-litre SKYACTIV four-cylinder—and we’re already itching to drive the production model. In North America, it will be equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and word is now out that another MX-5 may eventually be released with a more powerful turbocharged mill.
At least, that’s what our colleagues at Australia’s Motoring heard from Hidetoshi Kudo, General Manager of Communications at Mazda Japan. “The new ND model is expected to have a lifespan of 10 years, which gives us plenty of time to produce a number of variants. And yes, a turbo or Mazda Performance Series (MPS) model is definitely being considered.”
According to Hidetoshi, Mazda is more interested in turbocharged engines than naturally aspirated ones with more displacement, since turbos will help the MX-5 stay light on its toes and maintain its balanced weight distribution. “Today, turbocharged engines are preferred, even over V6s. Turbochargers give us the opportunity to use lighter engines that develop as much or even more power, and they also allow us to meet our emissions and fuel consumption targets.”
One thing is for sure: The MX-5 will continue to make headlines if Mazda moves forward with these variants, much like BMW did with the Mini.