Mazda hints at a hybrid or synthetic‑fuel MX‑5 for the future – discover what could power the next Miata. Read more now!
Even though the current ND‑generation Mazda Miata MX‑5 is slated to stay on the market until the end of the decade, whispers from Mazda’s European leadership suggest that a next‑generation model – tentatively referred to as the NE – is already taking shape.
Prototype Confirmation from Mazda’s Top Designers
Design chief Jo Stenuit and technology director Christian Schultze both confirmed that a working prototype exists, though the final power‑train formula is still being refined.
Core Values Remain Untouched
Stenuit emphasized that the MX‑5’s DNA – pure driving pleasure, lightweight construction, and an approachable price point – will not be compromised. However, he added that the future model “will need a boost from electric energy.”
“I imagine a silent glide through the forest with the top down, without the roar of a conventional engine getting in the way,” Stenuit said.
What Kind of Electrification?
The comments hint at a deeper electrified system than a simple mild‑hybrid. Possibilities being discussed include:
- Plug‑in Hybrid (PHEV): offering limited electric‑only range for city driving.
- Extended‑Range Electric Vehicle (EREV): a larger battery paired with a small engine acting as a generator.
Synthetic Fuels: A Parallel Path
Schultze, on the other hand, is betting on synthetic, carbon‑neutral fuels. He sees this route as the most logical way to slash emissions while preserving the MX‑5’s light‑weight, mechanical purity.
“Using synthetic fuel lets us keep the existing internal‑combustion engine without redesigning the entire car concept,” he explained.
He also warned against a full‑electric transition, noting that a battery pack could add up to half the vehicle’s weight and upset the carefully tuned balance that makes the Miata so beloved.
Alternative Powertrain Considerations
Another option on the table is a new 2.5‑liter SkyActiv‑Z gasoline engine. Yet engineers remain cautious: a larger engine would shift weight forward, potentially compromising the car’s nimble handling.
Timing and Regulations
Mazda isn’t rushing the NE launch. The company plans to continue supporting the current ND generation while monitoring regulatory shifts, such as the upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards. The ultimate goal is a solution that meets strict environmental rules without sacrificing the MX‑5’s iconic driving experience.
What to Expect Next
Auto enthusiasts can look forward to more leaks from Mazda’s European headquarters in the coming months. Whether the next Miata will arrive as a sophisticated hybrid, a synthetic‑fuel‑powered roadster, or a clever blend of both, the brand has signaled a commitment to keeping the spirit of ‘fun‑to‑drive’ alive.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on the future of the Mazda MX‑5.