When Mazda introduced its new Sky-G family of direct-injected four-cylinder gasoline engines at this year's Tokyo Auto Show, the company also announced its intention to slash curb weights across its entire vehicle lineup to keep performance up while reducing fuel consumption. And we hear the next-generation MX-5 Miata roadster will be one of the first to get the fat cut out of it.
Expected to debut in 2011, the future MX-5 roadster is likely to be smaller than the current model, and should tip the scales at a lean 2,200 pounds -- versus almost 2,500 pounds today. Although wild and impractical, the windshield-less MX-5 Superlight concept (shown above) from Frankfurt suggested Mazda has been thinking about reducing weight in the MX-5, which has grown from a simple, lightweight roadster into a softer, pudgier convertible over the years.
Sources close to the project suggest the next-gen MX-5 will use a version of the Sky-G engine with either 1.3 or 1.5 liters of displacement. Look for a horsepower rating near 150, as Mazda aims to maintain the current, 167-hp Miata's power-to-weight ratio.
Whatever size engine Mazda chooses, a significant improvement in fuel economy is expected. The 1.3-liter Sky-G is said to be capable of returning over 50 mpg in a car of this size. Inside Line has heard that Toyota has already been making inquiries about the Sky-G engines. -- Mak Tokuyama
sabastian says:
03:10 PM, 12/10/09
I wish they would build the superlight...It looks so cool.
Back on topic, lighter weight would be welcome! Cars are too fat these days.
jederino says:
04:09 PM, 12/10/09
These light models will clean up on the autocross circuit!
roadburner says:
04:30 PM, 12/10/09
As Colin Chapman said, "Simplify and add lightness!"
Amen and Amen.
jederino says:
05:18 PM, 12/10/09
I just hope these SKY engines are a blast to rev, because who really cares about increased fuel economy in the Miata, which already enjoys great economy? Will it have decent torque? Will it sound exhilerating? Can you wring its neck and still be friends?
carlisimo says:
07:21 PM, 12/10/09
jederino, the Miata doesn't have great economy, and its engine doesn't sound exhilarating. I have a 2002 and I get 20-25mpg. The current one's no better. Good torque, but it sounds and feels like a tractor engine compared to Honda's engines of the same size.
rick8365 says:
07:46 PM, 12/10/09
What a dweeb in the photo............
sabastian says:
08:39 PM, 12/10/09
A lot of the fuel economy issues are because of gearing in the Miata....Even the current six speed is ridiculously short.
hondacura4 says:
11:30 AM, 12/11/09
"Good torque, but it sounds and feels like a tractor engine compared to Honda's engines of the same size."
@Carlisimo, it's great to see someone who really appreciates sporty engine characteristics and sounds vs on paper hp/tq numbers! Many of the "paper drivers" who post here fail to acknowledge that this is very important especially in a sports car regardless of power output.
firstwagon says:
03:11 PM, 12/11/09
I think the original 1.6 and 1.8 Miata motors sounded better then the current ones and even better the most Honda motors. Maybe not as smooth but does that really matter?
The current one has a nice sound and is certainly not a tractor.
I'm really looking forward to the new version though. Lighter should alway be better and a high revving 1.5 will take it closer to the Lotus roots it was inspired by in the 1st place..