2026 Mazda MX-5 NE Is the Final Stand Against Automotive Boredom

Like any area governed by likes and unlikes from the general population, the car world is also influenced by trends, which come and go without leaving a lasting trace most of the time.

In 1989, a year marked by significant political shifts in Eastern Bloc countries across Europe and the official end of the Cold War, the foundations of some of the coolest car lineages we now cherish and critique were laid

Amid the technological, political, and economic events at the end of the '80s, there was a fortunate alignment that brought forth a multitude of automotive-related occurrences and the launch of groundbreaking models.

Some of these would have a lasting impact on the automotive industry for many years after that faithful year. Still, none of them can shake a stick at the automotive phenomenon that is the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

The tiny roadster from Hiroshima is a driving instrument that has only grown more subtle over the years, at least regarding its presence on the road. With that in mind, what was originally just a modern take on a 1960s British roadster has since evolved into a trendsetter of its own.

The MX-5, currently spanning four generations and boasting a sales record of over 1 million cars, still holds a unique position in Mazda's lineup. Not only has it achieved remarkable commercial success, surpassing all other Mazda models in profit margin, but it has also earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most successful 2-seat convertible in history.

The fourth-generation Mazda MX-5, whether in its RF guise or not, isn't necessarily the most practical car or roadster for everyday use. However, it's a gem worth every dollar the dealer asks, especially as a weekend toy. This car isn't about maximizing horsepower per dollar or mundane activities like sipping coffee during your commute. It's all about the sheer joy and exhilaration it brings, measured in smiles per mile.

Because not even Mazda can avoid the trends, especially when imposed by regulations, the fifth-generation MX-5 will jump on the 'electrified' bandwagon.

More Upscale, But Still a Lightweight

The 2026 roadster will feature slightly more creature comforts and better interior materials in line with the rest of the recently upgraded Mazda lineup.

Before fans of the model arm themselves with pitchforks and fiery sticks, they should remember that Mazda's ethos has always been about keeping weight to a minimum in the MX-5, and not only.

In translation, don't expect the fifth generation to get massaging seats or any uber-luxurious feature, as that would be way outside the model's spirit. A better infotainment system and slightly more upscale interior elements should do enough of a job to make the 2026 Mazda MX-5 (NE) more appealing to future owners.

According to Mazda insiders, the exterior design of the future model has already been signed off. Still, you won't see it leaked somewhere anytime soon.

That said, a preview of some of its lines might be seen on an upcoming concept car, albeit in coupe form, set to be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 at the end of October.

Strangely enough, the teaser for said concept bears a striking similarity to the so-called Mazda Vision Study Model, a concept coupe revealed in CGI form at the end of 2022.

Using a different take on the now-defunct pop-up headlights of the 1980s, made famous by the MX-5 NA as well, that concept was set to preview a 2030s version of an electric sports coupe to accompany the roadster.

Naturally Aspirated, with a Shot of Electrons

Mazda's answer to lightweight, accessible sports car motoring, the MX-5 Miata, is now thriving in its fourth generation despite getting a bit long in the tooth. Apart from the obvious engaging driving characteristics and perfect weight distribution, a considerable part of its charisma is that it still uses a naturally aspirated engine.

For 34 years and counting, the MX-5 has never switched to a turbocharged or a hybrid setup in the quest for fuel economy, with that part of driving being achieved strictly by keeping the model around a metric ton no matter how many modern amenities it had.

With that in mind, recent revelations hint that its upcoming successor will embrace the electrified revolution, albeit in a partial manner.

Sources say that the MX-5 NE will still have a high-revving four-cylinder and a six-speed, short-shift manual as its primary weapons of choice, but the engine will be augmented by an electric motor.

Initial reports mentioned a mild-hybrid setup, similar to what Mazda is already using in other models. Still, more recent speculations have switched talks to a full-on hybrid, which completely changes the situation.

That said, don't expect a Prius-like hybrid system, as the extra weight of the battery would negate everything the MX-5 stands for. The car's compact dimensions present a challenge in accommodating a battery with ample range. The added weight of a substantial battery pack could compromise performance, and the inclusion of EV components might drive a significant price increase, both for development and the end user.

Suppose Mazda somehow integrates a fast charging (and discharging) capacitor instead of a regular battery. But if that's the case, the hybrid setup wouldn't make any sense in a tiny, inexpensive roadster but a supercar. The most likely scenario is still a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup in conjunction with a reworked version of the same four-cylinder in the ND generation.

As expected, power will continue to be fed to the rear axle via that lovely six-speed manual. At the same time, fans of fast-shifting automatics could be treated with an 8-speed multi-clutch automatic borrowed from the new CX-90 SUV.

Weigh will likely increase no matter the choice of propulsion, but fret not, the little roadster that could will definitely remain one of the lightest cars on the market. Knowing the Hiroshima automaker, the Jinba Ittai (Horse and rider as one) character will also be included.