The fifth-generation Mazda MX-5 will weigh less than a tonne despite the introduction of a beefier four-cylinder engine, according to top executives.
A new take on the familiar sports car nameplate is currently in development, with a global debut earmarked for 2027.
The ‘NE’ MX-5 will replace the ND, which has been in production since 2015 and received two facelifts in 2018 and 2024.
While a thick layer of mystery has surrounded Mazda’s new pocket rocket, chief technical officer Ryuichi Umeshita and head of design Masashi Nakayama recently broke the silence to share some key details with Road & Track.
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ND Mazda MX-5 RF
It seems that many key pillars of the MX-5 formula will remain, including a lightweight body, naturally aspirated engine, and a manual transmission.
“I would say the most important thing is that it is lightweight, and that the second most important thing is that it is lightweight,” said Umeshita-san.
“When we consider the next-generation MX-5, we are considering making it less than one tonne in weight, and less than four metres in length,” added Nakayama-san.
For context, the current ND MX-5 weighs between 1063-1115kg in 2.0-litre, manual transmission guise, depending on whether it has a fabric soft-top (Roadster) or targa-style retractable metal roof (RF).
A sub-1000kg kerb weight would also see the NE MX-5 come in lighter than the preceding NC and NB generations – an impressive feat given modern safety standards.
Whether it can best the 930kg of the original 1.6-litre NA MX-5 remains to be seen.
One thing that the NE will definitely have over its ancestor is extra grunt, as the next MX-5 will be powered by Mazda’s new breed of SkyActiv-Z four-cylinder petrol engines.
Displacement will grow to 2.5 litres, but don’t expect a significant increase in performance over the ND, with Mazda citing tightening emissions standards as a prohibiting factor.
Nevertheless, the use of ‘Lambda 1’ combustion technology will ensure the NE can meet strict regulations while offering similar outputs to the outgoing model, which makes 135kW and 205Nm in standard 2.0-litre form.
“If we go to Lambda:1, then naturally power will go down,” admitted Umeshita-san.
“But in order to avoid that, we have defined the displacement to be 2.5 litres. So the power is very good, and the fuel economy will be very good.
“The current power-to-weight ratio is enough. We don’t think we need more power for the car, because we can fully utilise and enjoy the capability and capacity of the engine already.”
In more good news for passionate enthusiasts, Umeshita-san has also guaranteed the future of the manual transmission in the MX-5.
“Manual transmission has the direct feeling,” he said.
“It is key for the package, at least for the MX-5.”
MORE: Everything Mazda MX-5
