SPYSHOTS: Fiat 124 Spider based on the Mazda MX-5

These are the first spyshots of the upcoming Fiat 124 Spider, which is based on the latest ND Mazda MX-5, spotted testing in Detroit, USA.

Back in March, Fiat-Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne confirmed the Fiat 124 Spider name for his group’s Mazda MX-5-based roadster, evoking the Pininfarina-designed Fiat 124 Sport Spider that was sold from 1966 to 1980. Before that, it was thought that the “Italian MX-5” would be an Alfa Romeo or even an Abarth-badged car.

The Fiat 124 Spider will be built by Mazda in Hiroshima, where Mazda Roadster (the MX-5’s JDM name) production started in March.

This test mule is still heavily disguised, but it’s obvious that the Fiat will have a significantly different face from the Mazda’s snake-like fascia. The Japanese car’s slit eyes will give way to bigger, rounder headlamps; while the grille, which is positioned higher here, is likely to be a big oval item.

There’s a hood scoop too, hinting at Fiat MultiAir turbo power under the long bonnet. The rear-wheel drive MX-5 gives a choice of two naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engines, a 1.5 litre and a 2.0 litre.

The rear end, while fully covered, reveals a third brake light on the boot lid, and a rear diffuser with pipes at each end and a central fog lamp. Expect a more organic, classical design and shape when the 124 Spider debuts next year. An Italian MX-5 sounds interesting, doesn’t it?

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