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Take a Closer Look at the Next-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata Chassis

Take a good look at the Mazda chassis in the adjacent images. This is the reason for which your next-gen MX-5/Miata will be awesome. As any enthusiast knows, the heart of any MX-5 lies in its chassis and Mazda teased us last month in New York by revealing the future model’s platform. We can now get an even better view of the chassis, as Mazda once again displayed the development, this time in Japan.
Next-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata Chassis 10 photos
Photo: http://car.watch.impress.co.jp
Next-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata ChassisNext-Generation Mazda MX-5 / Miata Chassis
As expected, the carmaker is still keeping its Skyactiv lips sealed, so there isn’t any new official info on what the next MX-5 will bring to the sportscar game. In fact, the only official tech detail Mazda has provided so far is a weight reduction of up to 220 lbs (100 kg). The multiple cast aluminium parts visible here are a testament to that.

At the same time, the chassis will surpass the current one in terms of structural rigidity. There will be multiple elements to sustain that goal and the backbone element running the entire length of the car is an example as good as any. Mazda basically came up with a reinforced structural element around the crankshaft. And since we’re in this area, we’ll also mention the nicely compact size of the gearshift mechanism. Short-shifting for the win.

Starting from the front of the vehicle, we notice the longitudinally-positioned engine being placed low and as back as possible. The front-mid positioning of the unit, whose variable valve timing is also visible, allows us to notice the electric power steering system.

As far as the suspension is concerned, up front we have a double wishbone setup, while the rear axle uses a multi-link configuration. The rear diff is also in place, but its case keeps its details a secret.

Engine-wise, the next MX-5 / Miata should start with an updated version of the carmaker’s current 1.5-liter petrol unit, the one we tested on the Mazda3 Sedan. By the way, Mazda’s current Skyactiv-G petrol line-up is only made of naturally-aspirated engines. This means that the most likely candidate for the other end of the MX-5 range is a massaged incarnation of the company’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant.

We’ll remind you the next Miata will have a sister car, as it is set to share its platform with an upcoming sportscar from the Fiat Group. Earlier rumors named Alfa Romeo as the designated brand, but, as it turns out, the vehicle will wear Abarth’s scorpion badge. There's no reason to fret though, each model will get its dedicated engines and styling.

Via: Car Watch (Japanese)
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About the author: Andrei Tutu
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In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
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