New car news

19 January 2012 - 12:00

Is this the next MX-5?

In a sad way, modern sports cars are becoming four-wheeled computers. With each new generation, the driver is becoming further disconnected from the experience thanks to a thickening blanket of computer programs, electric steering and computerised gizmos.

But Mazda is offering a glimmer of hope with the next MX-5, which promises a truly rich, organic driving experience, like the original 1980s version. Traditionally, the MX-5 has been a champion of the lightweight ethos. And the next one, due in 2013, will be even lighter. Try 900 kilos. That's right, under a tonne.

The motoring grapevine is abuzz with rumours that Mazda has put its next MX-5 on a crash diet. With its new approach to building lighter, more efficient cars (called SKYACTIV in marketing speak), Mazda hopes the new MX-5's chassis alone will account for 10 per cent of the weight reduction. Yet reportedly, it will also be 30 per cent stiffer, thanks to the use of new, high-strength steel.

UK motoring website AutoExpress reports that the new MX-5 is expected to be powered by a new 1.3-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder (to meet ever-tightening emissions regs). Although for the nerds out there who dislike forced induction, a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated version is likely to be offered as well.

Mazda Australia spokesperson Steve Maciver could confirm that the next MX-5 will be coming to Australia. "It's such an iconic car, it's very important to Mazda both here and globally," he said. "And there's plenty of computer generated images out there on the internet but they are all based on speculation.

"Development of the next generation car is still underway and we can't reveal anything yet. We'll continue to develop our passenger car line-up with our new SKYACTIV technologies and lightweight engineering. And the next generation MX-5, when we do finally see it, is likely to benefit from these technologies as well."

This illustration, by Automedia, offers a glimpse of what it might look like. Mazda hinted at the future of its cars with the Takeri concept, unveiled at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. From now on, new Mazdas - like the picture above - are expected to feature a bold shield grille, more angular creases in the car's body panels, and distinctive, futuristic headlight designs.

The real thing will be unveiled sometime next year, before going on sale in 2014. If it looks anything like this one, we'll be very, very happy.

Image: Automedia