2016 Mazda MX-5 will reportedly boast a 99-HP SkyActiv-G engine … Zoom-Zoom?

By Joe Mahan Published March 21, 2014

mazda mx 5 goes skyactiv 2014 club — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has been a desirable sports car for 25 years now, and the Japanese automaker is celebrating its iconic roadster with a little 25th anniversary shindig.

Since the MX-5 has been so good to Mazda, the little Miata is now getting a complete revamp. The rear-drive platform is completely redesigned utilizing Mazda’s new SkyActiv-G engine technology. Specific changes have been made to the chassis and body to comply with Mazda’s new exterior design language.

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However, the biggest change will be the new 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated SkyActiv-G power plant. This new engine was recently launched in the Mazda3 and produces 99 horsepower and 111 pound-feet of torque. These are some pretty modest numbers, but not the kind I would expect to find in the mighty Miata. A 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G engine will also be launched with new platform, according to Autocar. Likely, the 1.5-liter won’t be offered Stateside, as it’ll be too underpowered for lead-footed Americans.

The new MX-5 goes on sale in 2015, which also happens to be the 25^th anniversary. Mazda is still up in the air on viability of a new compact roadster. By my approximation, the new design looks like it will be a huge success, and a car that embodies engineering principles and emphasizes handling should sell itself.

Hopefully, the new gas-saving technology will not hinder the mechanical perfection expected of the next-gen MX-5. Mazda knows what works, and every automotive enthusiast expects only the best from its enthralling sports car.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Joe Mahan is an intern at Digital Trends working in the Cars section. He is currently a Junior at the University of Portland…

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