All-New Mazda MX-5 debuts in Geneva

Employing Mazda’s new-generation sports car architecture that is significantly stiffer than before provides the base for the new Mazda MX-5’s safety systems. For the first time the Mazda MX-5 offers side airbag protection. A two-volume side-impact airbag is positioned inside each seat backrest. A single inflator simultaneously expands the torso portion of the airbag and the larger-volume head-protection airbag. This innovative design is light, compact, and highly effective at providing collision protection. The new side airbag feature is available in all markets.

To ensure comfort for a wider range of drivers, an adjustable steering wheel and additional movement for seat adjustment have been added to help drivers with extremely tall or short statures fit the cockpit perfectly. Storage accommodation is plentiful for a vehicle of this size. Three compartments are located on the rear wall (one readily accessible and lockable with room for 10 CDs, two positioned behind the seat backs). There is a pocket attached to the back of the left side seat, another one on the passenger’s side of the tunnel, a bottle holder in the door trim, as well as a covered receptacle for two beverage containers conveniently located behind the shift lever. The large glove box can be locked and there’s a small coin box provided for the driver.

Two features are designed to enhance comfort with the top down. New waist-level vents direct warm and cool air throughout the cockpit to help maintain comfortable cabin temperature on cold and hot days, making the open-air-driving season longer. A mesh-type air deflector mounted vertically behind the seats allows some air to enter the cockpit through its surface, thereby reducing buffeting and top-down turbulence.

Engines

A spirited engine and a wieldy transmission constitute the heart of any sports car. Two new MZR family engines—a 2.0-litre for all global markets and an additional 1.8-litre for Europe—power the all-new Mazda MX-5. These are light and compact and feature chain-driven double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake valve timing, electronically controlled port fuel injection, and coil-on-plug ignition. The block, head, and oil pan are cast aluminium, while cast iron liners provide a durable bore surface.

Both engines share a 10.8:1 compression ratio and an 83.1 mm stroke that is slightly shorter than the length of the piston’s travel in the previous 1.8-litre engine. The bore in the 2.0-litre engine is 87.5 mm versus 83.0 mm for the 1.8-litre version.

Final output for each engine will be confirmed as the vehicles go on sale in key markets. Output for the 1.8-litre is targeted to be 93 kW/ 126 PS at 6,500 rpm with maximum torque of 167 Nm (17.0 kg-m) at 4,500 rpm. The 2.0-litre European model is targeted to be 118 kW/160 PS at 6,700 rpm with peak torque of an estimated 188 Nm (19.2kg-m) at 5,000 rpm. Engine output will differ depending on local requirements.

Throughout the development process, work focused on what Mazda engineers called "response" and "expansion feel." A lighter flywheel, a quick response, an electric throttle and a stiff drive shaft all helped realize the responsive direct feel of the new Mazda MX-5. The new Mazda MX-5’s engine’s torque curve is held nearly level at high rpm by major reductions in intake and exhaust restriction. The result is an engine champing at the bit as it revs enthusiastically past the point of maximum torque to the redline, with superior response and direct feel.

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