2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata May Go Turbo
Rumors have been brewing on the 2014 Mazda MX-5 for some time now. What we do know from last year, is that the Japanese automaker plans on going back to the basics, lightening the weight, and throwing in a more potent powerplant.
It appears that Mazda still hasn’t settled on which engine will make its way into the next-generation MX-5. Apparently a naturally aspirated 1.5L four-cylinder with Skyactiv technology didn’t cut it, and neither did a version of their current 2.0L four-cylinder. The 1.5L didn’t meet Mazda’s performance requirements while the 2.0L didn’t have the fuel efficiency they wanted in the new MX-5.
So a compromise could come in the form of a 1.8L Skyactiv four-cylinder, or either a 1.3L or 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder. Back in December of last year, we reported that the front-runner for the MX-5 would be a 1.3L turbo, but it appears a final decision still hasn’t been made.
Regardless, the automaker plans on having around 150-hp and a 10-percent increase in fuel economy compared to the current MX-5 which has 22/28 city/highway mpg. Combine that with the fact that their weight goal is 2,200 lbs and the next-generation MX-5 should be loads of fun.
Mazda hopes to keep the 2014 Mazda MX-5 priced under $25,000.
[Source: Road & Track]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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What ever motor they pick I hope the performance dont fall off.
I totally agree with you brice! the new car needs way better numbers than the present car, 6.4 to 60 nothing slower, 90g skidpad minimum, 14.2 @ 100. will see how competitive ZOOM ZOOM really wants to be. Ill take my mx5 with the 1.5 turbo (150 hp/195ft-lbs) now that's ZOOM ZOOM!!!