The next-generation 2015 Mazda MX-5 roadster has started its customary development cycle – pounding the Nurburgring – as shown in this set of photos taken by our European spies. There’s nothing much on show, as the test mule wears a heavily adapted body of the current model.
What is apparent is that the new model is set to grow both in length and width, as the mule’s stretched doors and widened wheelarches show. Fret not, however, as new weight saving technologies will likely keep the next MX-5 close to its current weight of just over 1,000 kg.
The same platform will also be used as a base for the Alfa Romeo Spider revival project. Only around 40% of the parts will be shared between the two models (well below the 60% commonality in typical joint venture projects), all of which will be hidden under the skin.
The Mazda is likely to stick to conventional naturally aspirated SkyActiv engines, while Alfa prefers its own small-capacity turbocharged motors. No question, then, that each roadster will have its own brand and heritage-specific looks and dynamics. Mazda or Alfa, which would be your pick?
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Torque and power, if you do not have the look.
Actually I don’t see much of the current version on the road. Maybe because of the price and no manual stick available I guess.
Not sure if it’s still applicable but they had a RM20k discount for the current version at beginning of this year.
thats one hell of an ugly car
its a testmule dumbf*ck
The Spider of course.
All the pluses without the minuses of a temperamental Italian sportscar.
That said, wonder if it would be too tamed and looses said temperamental personality. That would be a real fine line.
The Italians just does drama better, even our old Fiat 124 snorts and burbles.with character.
I dont care what some internet troll types, Top Gear says the mx5 is the best roadster, nuff said, i’ll be waiting for the new one.