Mazda

The All-New Mazda MX-5

The all-new Mazda MX-5: The fourth generation is the one that should bring Mazda across the 1million mark in all-time sales, extending its world record as the bestselling roadster in history.

  • Pure lightweight Jinba Ittai rider-and-horse-as-one enjoyment in a sports car suited to today’s needs
  • 100kg lighter than the outgoing model generation by pursuing ideal structures throughout the vehicle
  • Equipped with a range of state-of-the-art new technology such as:
    • MZD Connect for in-car smartphone internet access
    • i-ACTIVSENSE advanced active safety technology 
    • the MX-5’s most advanced humanmachine interface to date
  • Ultra-sporty new KODO design
  • Slated to arrive at dealers in Europe in fall

Product concept

  • Maximise the roadster experience by appealing to the senses and sensations through which people enjoy cars with:
    • an agile design that sets the heart pounding, featuring body surfaces that richly express the contrast between stillness and motion
    • an experience that captivates any driver with the ultimate Jinba Ittai feeling
    • a pleasantly refreshing and universally enjoyable roadster that lifts the spirits
  • And at the same time satisfy today’s technology and convenience demands

Exterior

  • Unique ultra-sporty rendition of Mazda’s award-winning KODO – Soul of Motion design
  • More dynamic than ever with the cabin moved towards the rear and the hip-point of the seats lowered, thus making its occupants stand out
  • Body panels wrap around into the door trim, dissolving the boundaries between the inside and outside of the car
  • Reflections on the body surfaces change with the angle of the light, making the car actually look alive

Interior

  • A people-oriented interior built for driving and pure top-down roadster pleasure, featuring:
    • advanced wind control, with the shape of the door trim and smaller quarter windows optimised for just the right amount of top-down wind
    • new headrest speakers deliver a clear sound, whether listening to music or talking on the phone
    • a soft top that is simple to operate even when seated
  • The cabin remains snug and secure, true to the MX-5’s Jinba Ittai spirit, but with a symmetry that lets the driver focus.

Connectivity, functionality & equipment 

  • MZD Connect, Mazda’s next-generation connectivity system, works in tandem with a smartphone to enable safe and easy access to the internet and communication services when in transit
  • The MX-5’s most advanced human machine interface yet, with a highly ergonomic layout
    • pedals, controls, gauges and other equipment located in the optimum positions, enabling the driver to maintain a straight, comfortable posture

Powertrains

  • Upholds the MX-5’s front-midship engine, rear-wheel drive layout with perfect 50:50 frontback weight distribution
  • Powered by one of two lightweight SKYACTIV-G petrol engines, specially modified for the MX-5 to deliver direct responsiveness and outstanding agility
    • SKYACTIV-G 1.5: 96 kW/131PS at 7,000rpm
    • SKYACTIV-G 2.0: 118 kW/160PS at 6,000rpm
  • Driven by a choice of specially tuned six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, featuring

e.g. the SKYACTIV-MT’s patented short, crisp gearshift stroke

Chassis & body

  • Takes faithful responsiveness and precision handling to a new level for the ultimate Jinba Ittai experience
  • Perfect front-rear weight distribution with lowest centre of gravity to date and a maximum amount of weight concentrated as close as possible to the lower centre of gravity
  • Brake system optimised for top controllability and effectiveness, so the driver can maintain posture even when braking hard
  • Lightweight yet highly rigid suspension utilises a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link set-up

Safety

Incorporates i-ACTIVSENSE active safety technology and the Mazda Proactive Safety philosophy, which aims to:

  • minimise the possibility of accidents by identifying risks early on 
  • maximise the range of conditions in which the driver can operate the vehicle safely n Takes a multi-layered approach to passive safety:
  • safer than ever thanks to SKYACTIV Technology, which adds strength to the open-top body and enhances the absorption of crash impact energy 
  • features SRS side airbags with a head protection function

Stephan Manini – 2015