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Written by Matthew Monaghan
Mazda Motor Corp. on Wednesday evening unveiled the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata, which adopts both SkyActiv technology and Mazda"s "Kodo" (or "Soul of Motion") design language. The MX-5, first introduced 25 years ago, maintains Mazda"s original aim of offering the pure driving fun that only a lightweight sports car can provide. Weight reduction of more than 100 kg (220 lb), down from the previous model"s 2480 lb (1123 kg), is achieved through the adoption of SkyActiv technology a combination of a lightweight and rigid chassis and body and of highly efficient engines and transmissions. This MX-5 chassis is the first time SkyActiv Technology has ever been shown in a front mid-ship engine rear-wheel-drive design. Its compact configuration showcases an engine closer to the vehicle"s center, a center of gravity that itself is lower than that of any previous generation. "The dedication of the R&D and Design teams to honor the vehicle"s dynamic heritage and globally recognizable features is evident from the chassis" structural blueprint and will undoubtedly translate into what we believe will be a remarkable production car," said Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations, Mazda North American Operations. According to Mazda, this is the most compact MX-5 thus far, while also achieving the highest standards of body rigidity and collision safety performance. The vehicle will begin being rolled out to global markets starting in 2015.
Date: 04-Sep-2014 12:34 EDT
More of this article on the SAE International website
ID: 959
Mazda Motor Corp. on Wednesday evening unveiled the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata, which adopts both SkyActiv technology and Mazda"s "Kodo" (or "Soul of Motion") design language. The MX-5, first introduced 25 years ago, maintains Mazda"s original aim of offering the pure driving fun that only a lightweight sports car can provide. Weight reduction of more than 100 kg (220 lb), down from the previous model"s 2480 lb (1123 kg), is achieved through the adoption of SkyActiv technology a combination of a lightweight and rigid chassis and body and of highly efficient engines and transmissions. This MX-5 chassis is the first time SkyActiv Technology has ever been shown in a front mid-ship engine rear-wheel-drive design. Its compact configuration showcases an engine closer to the vehicle"s center, a center of gravity that itself is lower than that of any previous generation. "The dedication of the R&D and Design teams to honor the vehicle"s dynamic heritage and globally recognizable features is evident from the chassis" structural blueprint and will undoubtedly translate into what we believe will be a remarkable production car," said Robert Davis, Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations, Mazda North American Operations. According to Mazda, this is the most compact MX-5 thus far, while also achieving the highest standards of body rigidity and collision safety performance. The vehicle will begin being rolled out to global markets starting in 2015.
Date: 04-Sep-2014 12:34 EDT
More of this article on the SAE International website
ID: 959
