Published: Aug 31, 2012

2015 Mazda MX-5 Going Turbo

Mazda targeting less weight and more power for the base Miata, with a stripped out, hardcore variant also tipped to join the range.

The fourth generation MX-5 is starting to shape up nicely, with Mazda and Alfa Romeo collaborating on the new vehicle and each to get its own version. British publication What Car? claims to have the skinny, reporting that the new Miata will incorporate a 200hp turbocharged 1.3-liter four when it goes on sale in 2015. After years of having the segment mostly to itself, Mazda is keeping an eye on the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S, aiming to trim a good 100 kg from the current model's curb weight to keep it down to around 1,000 kg.

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More power (over the 170hp 2.0 in the current model) and less weight equals improved acceleration and handling, and customers are also expected get a level of customization on par with the Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper when the rear-wheel-drive roadster hits showrooms. A lighter, more hardcore version is also expected to join the range. Photos displayed are of the MX-5 Yusho and Senshu special edition concepts.