Until late last year, Mazda executives have been rather quiet about the revival of the MPS hot hatch. At our last meeting with them (November 14th 2018) at the Mazda ASEAN Design Forum in Bangkok, we asked about the revival of the RX nameplate as a supercar and the MPS nameplate and their only response was for the RX nameplate which looked like the ‘Vision’ concept car that was unveiled on stage.
Now comes some good news from Europe that the MPS will be revived and this is great news for Mazda MPS fans in Malaysia, New Zealand and also Australia because there is a big following for this hot hatch which rivals the best Europe has to offer.
This brand new model is planned for release in 2020 using the Skyactiv X platform and drivetrain but with more power and handling to match the segment leaders, namely the Renault Megane R.S., Ford Focus ST and the VW Golf R. This new MPS will have plenty of styling cues from the current Kodo design language. Power will probably be delivered courtesy of a 2.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder producing over 225kW and impressive torque figures, probably of more than 450Nm to be really competitive.
Unlike the current MPS (pictured above), the new MPS will come with all wheel drive which would have it challenging the all new Subaru WRX. It will also come with a unique sporty body-kit, a bonnet bulge, 19-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension and brakes, and a bespoke interior with sports seats. More to come as we get information on this exciting new sports hot hatch.
