Fans of the Mazda MX-5 rejoice, as the new-generation NE Mazda MX-5 is currently in the works.
According to an interview by AutoRai, Mazda’s Design Director in Europe, Jo Stenuit, has mentioned that the next-generation NE Mazda MX-5 is currently still under development, saying, “The Mazda MX5 is of course the core of our company. Without MX-5, Mazda would look completely different. So of course we are working on it.”
That being said, Mazda has yet to confirm what powertrain option the next-gen NE MX-5 could receive.
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Stenuit went on to say, “The ND generation is now twelve years old and it is still a perfect car. So yes, how do you make that better? That’s difficult. We did a project in 2024 where we started looking a bit at what the possibilities are for the MX-5 NE. Nothing is set in stone yet, but I’m sure that car will come and that there will be some form of electric assistance in it. Mild hybrid will be the least.”
So, at the very least, the NE Mazda MX-5 could receive a mild-hybrid (MHEV) powertrain, something that could help to lower emissions.
Christian Schultze, Director of Research and Operations at Mazda Motor Europe added, “There are many forms of hybridization possible. Nowadays you see sports cars where hybrid technology is used purely for extra power. That’s an interesting development, but it doesn’t automatically fit in with the philosophy of the MX-5. For the MX-5, it’s not about maximum horsepower. You don’t need extreme power to experience driving pleasure. Even with a relatively small engine, you can have a lot of fun. Hybridization would therefore only be interesting if it contributes to efficiency or regulation, without undermining weight and character.”
Of course, development work is still underway and Mazda is still evaluating various powertrain options for its iconic roadster. Schultze said, “The development of a new generation is not yet complete, but it doesn’t have to be yet. There is no need to be completely ready at this time. What is important is that we are prepared when regulations or market conditions require it. So we are working ahead, but without hasty decisions.”
As for the rumoured 2.5-litre engine, he said, “The question is really: what do you need that 2.5-liter for? Is it for extra torque? Is it for better emission values? Or is it mainly attractive because the figure is larger? We want a light engine. A 2.5-liter is by definition heavier than a 1.5- or 2.0-liter. Extra weight in the front has a direct influence on balance and steering. These are exactly the elements that make the MX-5 so special. So it’s not an easy choice.”
The current-generation ND-generation Mazda MX-5 may be 11 years old, having launched back in 2015, but the MX-5 remains a Mazda DNA and the company has no plans to axe the model. “The MX-5 is an essential part of our brand DNA. As long as we can maintain the core values – lightweight, balance and pure driving pleasure – we will continue to look for solutions to make the MX-5 future-proof,” Schultze said.
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