Engineers from Mazda have been noticed testing what’s prone to be an early take a look at mule for a redesigned MX-5 Miata.
A take a look at mule is the place the brand new mechanicals are hidden inside a makeshift physique through the early stage of testing. On this case, the engineers are utilizing a modified physique of the present Miata.
Clues that give away the identification of the automobile embrace the delicate fender extensions on the rear, which level to a widened observe in comparison with the present automobile. There’s additionally the camouflage gear up entrance, which can be hiding new intakes, although nothing is seen at this level. We’ll know extra as soon as engineers begin testing the primary prototypes sporting the automobile’s precise physique, possible round six months from now.
2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata (NE) take a look at mule spy photographs – Photograph credit score: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
The present Miata, the ND era, arrived in 2015 as a 2016 mannequin. The redesigned model, prone to be categorized an NE, ought to seem late subsequent 12 months though we may see the reveal pushed into 2024. This implies it’s going to possible arrive as a 2024 or 2025 mannequin.
Underpinning the automobile must be an up to date model of the present Miata’s platform. Though Mazda has a brand new rear-wheel-drive platform on its arms, generally known as the Skyactiv Multi-Answer Scalable Structure, the automaker has mentioned the platform shall be reserved for bigger automobiles. Its first utility was the CX-60 crossover launched earlier this 12 months outdoors the U.S.
Mazda hasn’t mentioned a lot concerning the subsequent Miata, though the automaker has confirmed some type of electrification. The information should not come as a shock as Mazda final 12 months mentioned it goals to have a completely electrified lineup by 2030.
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The excellent news is that Mazda, whereas confirming electrification for the Miata, mentioned it’s going to attempt to maintain the automobile mild and reasonably priced. This factors to the redesigned automobile possible that includes a easy mild-hybrid setup, versus one thing like plug-in hybrid expertise that Mazda will add to its crossover lineup. A gentle-hybrid setup is actually a starter motor that may act as a generator to get better vitality beneath braking or coasting, with the vitality saved in a small battery for use to energy ancillary options and typically to assist the engine throughout high-load conditions.
The remainder of the drivetrain setup ought to embrace a low-emission 4-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and the selection of handbook or computerized transmissions, identical to the present automobile.
Keep tuned for updates as improvement continues.
