2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Unveiled

Cameron Aubernon
by Cameron Aubernon

This is it: The 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata unveiled for all to behold.

The fourth-generation MX-5 takes the automaker’s Kodo design language to another level, giving the iconic roadster “the presence of a living creature and a strong sense of vitality to the car,” as well as convey agility.

Underneath the bio-mechanical skin, the roadster distributes its 2280 pounds of weight — 200 pounds lighter than the current MX-5 — 50:50 between the front and rear. Under the bonnet, a Skyactiv-G direct-injection gasoline engine sends its power to the back through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Part of the weight reduction comes from the use of aluminum forward of the A-pillar as well as the rear bumper reinforcements. Lighter suspension components and soft-top materials contribute to Mazda’s so-called “gram strategy,” also.

Behind the wheel, the automaker’s Mazda Connect next-gen connected-vehicle system “efficiently links the driver to the car and the outside world.” Meanwhile, the soft-top can be operated from within the cockpit, the roadster won’t look awkward like the Nissan Z and Murano CrossCabriolet with the top down, and wind control features will keep your hair or hat from blowing away.

The new MX-5 will go on sale in 2015. No price of admission has been announced at this time.





Cameron Aubernon
Cameron Aubernon

Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.

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  • Master Baiter Master Baiter on Sep 04, 2014

    This is the formula GM should have used for the new Corvette: smaller, lighter (so you don't need as much engine) and organic styling. I'd take this MX-5 over a Corvette any day.

    • See 2 previous
    • Stuki Stuki on Sep 04, 2014

      @bosozoku The 'Vette should never ditch the smallblock. Ever. It's the greatestest engine evva! They could shrink the rest of the car a bit, but the new ones aren't even that big compared to the competition. Lots of people have this idea that sports/sporty cars should be wide like a track racer.

  • 05lgt 05lgt on Sep 05, 2014

    I like the style, and think the face looks a little Miyazaki. Like some sort of fast frog spirit with power but not necessarily evil. Then again, I have a vivid imagination.

  • Akear The front reminds me of the Pontiac Aztec, though it does look better than that infamous vehicle. I predict they will sell about 5,000 of these annually.
  • Chris Teague I'm putting the Pilot Sport 4s back on my GR Corolla next week, so all of New England can thank me for the late spring snow storm we'll undoubtedly have right after that.
  • 285exp I am no less interested in buying an EV this year as I was last.
  • FreedMike @Tim Healey: Off topic but this site is becoming borderline unusable from a technical standpoint, and it doesn't matter if I'm using my phone, laptop or Ipad. At some point you can't type anymore.
  • Rochester It depends entirely on the vehicle. Summer-only tires are pointless on a Sentra, but awesome on a Z.
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