Next Miata Going Super-Lightweight
Details are starting to emerge on the direction of the next MX-5 from Mazda.
Not surprising, given the rapidly approaching fuel economy regs in the US, which are making all makers look closely at lighter weights and more exotic powertrain tech, Mazda is taking the challenges and spinning them in a decidedly Zoom-Zoom sort of way.
The next MX-5, due in 2012 as a 2013, should shed about 300 lbs, putting it much closer to its original 1989 fighting weight. Engines are expected to downsize from the current 2.0l to the 1.6 or 1.8 sizes from generations past as well. Expect these engines to be part of Mazda's SKY-G engine initiative that will see them getting direct injection as well as start-stop tech to further increase mileage without much (if any) compromises in sportiness.
Not surprising, given the rapidly approaching fuel economy regs in the US, which are making all makers look closely at lighter weights and more exotic powertrain tech, Mazda is taking the challenges and spinning them in a decidedly Zoom-Zoom sort of way.
The next MX-5, due in 2012 as a 2013, should shed about 300 lbs, putting it much closer to its original 1989 fighting weight. Engines are expected to downsize from the current 2.0l to the 1.6 or 1.8 sizes from generations past as well. Expect these engines to be part of Mazda's SKY-G engine initiative that will see them getting direct injection as well as start-stop tech to further increase mileage without much (if any) compromises in sportiness.