The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the few widely available and relatively affordable convertible sports cars on the market. A new generation is now on the horizon. A hybrid powertrain could be among the big changes that keep the model in the lineup for another iteration.
Euro 7 emission regulations are a major consideration for Mazda when developing the new Miata.
“It should also be strongly triggered by the implementation of the recently announced new legislation for Stage 7 in Europe,” said Yasuhiro Aoyama, director and general manager of Mazda. wheels. “So we are still investigating the contents of the seventh stage, but it will affect our MX-5 at that time.”
Aoyama sees a hybrid as a solution to meeting stricter emissions regulations.
“It will be, at the time, a kind of electrification, so we have to study the most appropriate strategy for the future MX-5 that will not betray the expectations of our passionate fans,” he said.
Aoyama’s statement isn’t the first we’ve heard of an electrified Miata. In 2021, a Mazda spokesperson confirmed to Motor1.com that the company intends to electrify the next generation Miata. “Mazda is looking to electrify the MX-5 Miata with the goal of having all models have some form of electrification by 2030,” the source said.
Akira Tamatani, head of design at Mazda, also spoke about the future Miata. He ruled out the use of the brand’s new mild-hybrid straight-six in the sports car. “If you put that type of engine in and it won’t be an MX-5 anymore,” he said.
Tamatani says the new Miata would not be identical to the recent Vision Study Concept (gallery above). Mazda launched the swoopy design in November. There was a lot of talk about whether he was imagining a future MX-5 or something else.
“It’s a message. We have this passion for creating this type of vehicle, that’s the message we want to say. But are we going to make production vehicles from it? We haven’t really decided yet. “, said Tamatani.
In September 2022, spy photos caught Mazda testing a current-generation Miata with a camouflaged nose. If you looked closely, the rear fenders were wider than the existing model. Wiring also ran along this area. The vehicle was allegedly a test mule for the next-generation sports car.
