Mazda has just showed a glimpse of the next generation MX5 and has not offered too many details to go with the platform, but they did mention a weight reduction of up to 100kg which will give the next generation 2015 MX-5 a kerb weight of just under 1000kg. Mazda’s Skyactiv platform will also be used by the 2015 Miata’s nonidentical twin. This will be released by a Fiat Group brand and while Alfa Romeo was the most likely company in the past, Abarth is now the expected badge.
Nonetheless, each car will have its own engines and for the 2015 Miata, the game will start with an updated version of Mazda’s 1.5-liter petrol unit note that the carmaker’s current Skyactiv-G petrol engine range currently only includes naturally-aspirated units. At the other end of the scale, we should find a tweaked incarnation of Mazda’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Literally on top of this tech package, the MX-5 will probably feature a cloth roof, as the solution is lighter, more compact and more affordable. Mazda could return to the current foldable metallic hardtop later on in the Miata’s lifecycle.