With over a million models produced over three generations, Mazda’s MX-5 has the enviable title of being the world’s best-selling sportscar. In a matter of weeks, the Japanese company will reveal the all-new fourth generation MX-5 at the Paris Motor Show.
Ahead of that event, Mazda has leaked this image as broadcast by WorldCarFans. Not much can be seen in the detail, but according to Mazda insiders the new car will look nothing like its predecessor, instead opting for the firm’s latest Kodo design language. If the new Mazda2 and 3 (or this leaked sketch) are anything to go by, then the new car will also be a looker.
We do know that the little car will maintain its two-seat configuration. And more importantly for enthusiasts, it will retain the front-engine/rear-wheel drive layout. At the New York Auto Show earlier this year, Mazda unveiled the drivetrain which shows an inline four cylinder motor mounted longitudinally. We can also see the double wishbone front and multilink rear suspension arrangement.
In earlier discussions about the new car, Mazda engineers claim that the new car will tip the scales at roughly 100 kg less than the current model, placing it around the 1 100 kg mark, which means it won’t need loads of power to feel really lively.
About a year after the Japanese roadster goes on sale, the same underpinnings will form the basis of a new small Alfa Romeo.
CAR will be reporting from the Paris Motor Show that opens its doors on 3 October.
