Over the span of 35 years, Mazda’sMX-5 has adhered to a design principle prioritizing overall harmony instead of just emphasizing power output. Known for being a nimble sports vehicle, this iconic model is set to undergo substantial revisions soon. Scheduled for release in 2027, the upcoming generation will feature a more robust 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated engine as opposed to the present 2.0-liter variant. According to Mazda, increasing the size of the engine does not aim to boost speed; rather, it aims to comply with tighter emission regulations. This new 2.5-liter four-cylinder configuration marks an important shift compared to the American-market iteration which delivers 184 horsepower (and upped to 200 horsepower in Japan under their Sport Racer package).
Mazda Is Committed to the Ultimate Lightweight Design; It Boasts a Definite Plan for Reducing Weight
Perhaps more shocking than the engine upgrade is Mazda’s ambitious weight target. The company’s design chief revealed a goal of under 1 ton (2,205 lbs) for the next-gen MX-5. This would make it over 70 kg (154 lbs) lighter than the current lightest U.S. model, the Sport trim, which weighs 1,073 kg (2,366 lbs), and nearly as light as the Japan-only 990S variant, which weighs 990 kg (2,183 lbs).
Mazda intends to adopt an all-encompassing strategy for decreasing vehicle mass. This encompasses cutting down on acoustic materials, lessening the heft of the braking components and rims, as well as streamlining the multimedia interface. A stick shift remains set as the default feature across models. While hybrid capabilities have yet to be officially announced, the adaptable SkyActiv-Z architecture paves the way for potential electric integration, thus opening up possibilities for forthcoming hybrid iterations.
Is The Last of the Pure Manual Transmission Sports Cars?>manual transmission persists
As the automotive sector quickly moves toward electric vehicles, the MX-5 could end up as one of the final instances of a sportscar powered solely by an internal combustion engine. Although Mazda has shown curiosity about electrification with models such as the Iconic SP concept car, they continue to think that a petrol engine best preserves theMX-5’s focus on being light and nimble.
The upcoming MX-5 goes beyond merely enhancing the powerplant. Mazda intends to preserve the fundamental aspects of classic sports cars such as compact dimensions, lightweight construction, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and a manual gearbox, all while adjusting to evolving regulations. With electric vehicles gaining prevalence, the MX-5 remains distinctive through its use of an internal combustion engine.
The Lasting Charm of the MX-5Has AlwaysBeen More Than Just Pure Velocity
The MX-5 has always been valued for its handling and overall driving experience rather than high horsepower. Mazda prioritizes accurate steering, quick response, balanced weight, and driver engagement. Even with the upcoming 2.5-liter engine, Mazda emphasizes that the goal is not higher speed.
The MX-5 isn’t just another sports car. It’s a unique proposition that balances cutting-edge technology with driving emotion, all while resisting industry trends. The 2027 MX-5 revisits a familiar question: What truly makes driving enjoyable? Mazda’s upcoming model aims to deliver a clear and compelling response.
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