Mazda's New MX-5

By Craig Cheetham

02nd February 2005

Inspired by the 2003 Mazda Ibuki concept car, the profile of the new roadster is more substantial than the current MX-5's, but maintains the same curved sill and swooping doorline.

One of the biggest changes sees the wheelarches become more pronounced and rounder, as on the RX-8. The coup΃©'s styling cues continue at the front, with the company's trademark trapezoid-shaped air intake and cut-outs for the foglamps. The rear end is flatter and wider than the current car's, and the clear lamp lenses echo those of the Mazda 6.

The styling change allows the MX-5 to have a much bigger boot than its predecessor, making it far more practical for those who are considering it as their only car.

But it's inside that some of the most dramatic improvements are to be made. The new model will make a quantum leap forward in quality, with a more spacious interior. The cabin also takes its styling cues from the Ibuki, and includes a similar centre console and aluminium detailing. The classic-style three-spoke steering wheel is carried over from the prototype, too. The newcomer will go on sale across Europe later this year, with deliveries to left-hand-drive markets starting in August and UK sales expected to begin in November. Two engines will be offered, with a 1.8-litre petrol engine in the entry-level car. This will develop 124bhp, while the flagship 2.0-litre model will have 158bhp and is expected to deliver a 0-60mph sprint time of less than seven seconds. The 1.8 version will get a five-speed manual

gearbox, while the 2.0 is to be fitted with a close-ratio six-speed manual. An automatic model could appear later, possibly using the latest sequential gearbox technology.
Like the current MX-5, the new model will retain the traditional rear-drive layout, although a traction control system is to be installed for the first time.

Prices are expected to rise by about ΂£1,500 over the current car, meaning the entry-level 1.8 will cost around ΂£17,000. Meanwhile, Mazda is stocking up for a boom in demand for the 'classic' MX-5, as orders for the final edition are expected to flood in from enthusiasts. The last MX-5 will roll off the production line in summer, and a special-edition run-out model will appear at British dealers in August.