The Mazda MX-5 Miata is an iconic and popular roadster which is known for its handling characteristics. Despite it being a huge success, one of the biggest and most common complaints about the vehicle is the lack of power. Perhaps the 2016 Mazda MX-5 will finally answer these concerns?
The all-new and completely redesigned 2016 model is expected to go on sale in late 2015 and will be the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata. The roadster is already considered lightweight but the newer version will be lighter by 220 pounds (100kg) which puts it close to the weight of the original MX-5 Miata back in 1989. In our review of the 2014 Miata, we loved the low ride height and this new model will be lower by 20mm, shorter by 105mm, and wider by 10mm. The wheelbase will also be shortened by 15mm while the front/rear overhang is reduced by an additional 90mm.
2016 Mazda Miata Revealed
The current 2.0-liter producing 167 horsepower is ‘just okay’ but not sufficient enough for me. Mazda is pretty tight-lipped about the details of the 2016 model when it comes to performance figures. I think more power is to be expected but I have a feeling everybody will be underwhelmed by whatever the numbers may be. A better performing 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder is what’s speculated and parts of Europe may receive a 1.5-liter version. Mazda was only willing to admit to the new engine will be a specially tuned SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine. And from previous press releases, forced induction is absolutely out of the question.
The new design language really speaks to me and I love the lines from the hood to the boot. The new lines also follow the ‘Kodo’ theme which has been used on the Mazda6, Mazda3, and the soon to be released 2015 Mazda2. I really like the dramatic change in the design of the taillights which start off as being narrow and then being greeted by a circular design.
Mazda says the interior is of “higher quality” and will feature more soft-touch plastics and more stylish trim finishes. In the pictures, we see a soft-top convertible but a hard-top version will likely be on the way in the future.
Although not a very practical vehicle for me, I really love the new design language. I hope the power issue is finally taken care of but my guess is that the final figure will be 197 horsepower.
That looks pretty cool, reminds me a bit of the S2000