- The next-generation Miata isn’t coming anytime soon.
- Mazda wants to maintain the formula by making the car as light as possible.
- Synthetic fuels are considered the ideal solution to pass emission regulations without increasing weight.
While the possibility of a new rotary sports car reviving the “RX” moniker is growing, Mazda remains committed to the Miata. However, the fifth generation isn’t coming anytime soon, even though the current ND model is already 12 years old. Europe’s head of design has revealed that “it will be a few more years” before the NE arrives.
Speaking with the Dutch publication Auto RAIJo Stenuit said Mazda has not yet decided which powertrain it will use. They believe some form of electric will likely be developed, ensuring the next Miata meets emissions regulations. While mild hybrids have the smallest weight penalty, this type of technology is apparently the “minimum of options” the company is considering.
Separately, Mazda’s European R&D boss, Christian Schultze, said Auto RAI In a best-case scenario, the Miata NE will use a synthetic-fuel combustion engine. This will avoid weight penalties associated with electrification and allow the model to comply with stricter legislation. However, this is largely wishful thinking at the moment, as there is virtually no infrastructure for CO2-neutral fuels.
Photo by: Mazda
‘The easiest way to reduce the MX-5’s emissions is to use synthetic fuel. That’s the short answer, really. If you look at the technical reality, synthetic, CO2-neutral fuel allows you to continue using an existing combustion engine without completely overhauling the car concept. For a model like the MX-5, which relies heavily on lightweight construction, balance and mechanical purity, it’s a very logical route to take.’
Emissions regulations are a constant issue for Mazda. About two years ago, the Zoom-Zoom company had no choice but to discontinue the Miata’s 2.0-liter engine in Europe because it failed to comply with EU legislation. Since then, only the smaller 1.5 liter unit has been available for the beloved roadster on the continent.
Although the ND has been around since 2014, Mazda apparently hasn’t fixed the formula. Engineers are working hard to keep the 1.5- and 2.0-liter engines compliant with regulations, Schultze said. The naturally aspirated four-cylinder units will undergo “technical adjustments, combustion improvements, exhaust aftertreatment, and performance,” he added. Hopefully the larger of the two engines will return to Europe before the ND generation is retired.
As for what’s ahead, Mazda’s European R&D leadership will prefer the mildest form of electrification if synthetic fuel fails to gain traction, which, to be fair, probably won’t happen anytime soon. Mazda previously hinted at shoehorning its upcoming 2.5-liter SkyActiv-Z engine under the hood, but now that seems unlikely. Schultze said it would negatively affect balance and steering. Additionally, with Euro 7 on the horizon, he doubts fitting a bigger engine will allow the Miata NE to meet the new emissions standard. He admits that it is difficult for Mazda to satisfy both buyers and regulators:
‘We are looking for a technically sound solution with the right performance, the right weight, and full regulatory compliance. This is not an easy task.’
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Motor1’s Tech: Mazda doesn’t appear to be in a rush to replace the ND, even though the fourth-generation Miata has reached a respectable age. Without seeing a prototype yet, we’re likely at least two years away from the car’s official debut, and even before it goes on sale. Then again, the current car is almost perfect as it is, so why ax it?
While there is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding NE, its continued development should reassure fans. The Japanese automaker has already promised to retain the rear-wheel drive layout and manual gearbox in a lightweight package, so the fifth-generation Miata must wait.
