New Mazda MX-5 chassis revealed

First glimpse of all-new Mazda MX-5, with bare SKYACTIV chassis on display at the New York show

Twenty-five years after the original Mazda MX-5 was revealed at the 1989 Chicago Motor show, Mazda has given us our first insight into the technology that will underpin the all-new fourth-generation MX-5 – due on sale in early 2015.

On display at the New York Motor Show isn’t the car itself, but the advanced new SKYACTIV-chassis and engine that will form the backbone of the new MX-5, and the new Alfa Spider being co-developed alongside it. Mazda has confirmed the engine will be positioned behind the front axle and closer to the car’s centre than ever before, plus the centre of gravity will be lower than previous generations – factors that should improve the handling.

The new chassis has also been engineered for “outstanding body rigidity and crashworthiness”, while the weight has been reduced by more than 100kg through the use of thinner, higher-strength steels. As a result, entry-level soft-top models are expected to weigh less than 1,050kg.

New Mazda MX-5: extra details

At this stage there are no other official details from Mazda, although the car is expected to gain a slightly longer wheelbase than its predecessor for improved stability, comfort and interior space. The engine range is likely to include a pair of naturally-aspirated four-cylinder SKYACTIV petrol engines – one a 1.5-litre unit and the other a 2.0-litre, with around 130bhp and 165bhp respectively. As you can see in the picture, a manual gearbox will continue to be offered, with an auto as an option.

Mazda is giving little away about the car’s design, but it’s believed to be a very different interpretation of the ‘Kodo’ design language – rather than a cardboard cut-out of the new Mazda3 or Mazda6. Expect simple-surfacing and classic roadster proportions with a long bonnet and the cabin pushed back towards the rear axle.

“The original concept behind the MX-5 was so simple; to offer the pure joy of a lightweight sportscar that moves precisely as the driver intends, said Mazda’s Chairman, Takashi Yamanouchi. “While responding to increasing safety and environmental requirements, over the 25 years since its launch we have had to continually reinvent the MX-5 – far beyond simple evolution – in order to stay true to that original ideal.”

The new MX-5 is tipped to make its full debut at next year’s Chicago Motor Show in February, and go on sale soon after with prices starting at around £20,000.