The redesigned 2016 Mazda Miata MX-5 debuted tonight in Monterey, Calif. before an assembled crowd of brand enthusiasts, dealers and reporters. When the curtain finally parted and the new car emerged, it was immediately clear that the new MX-5 left its friendly little ancestor behind in the proverbial dust.
Easily Mazda’s most iconic model, the MX-5 is celebrating its 25th anniversary. This child of the late 1980s was always a true roadster — a small, zippy, simple and affordable two seat sports car for true drivers. When it debuted, the Miata’s rounded styling was very 1980s and just a little bit “Fisher Price Meets Barbie’s Malibu Dream House.” That playful look worked for Mazda – as its 25 year run proves. Guinness ranks it as the best selling two-seater roadster in history. But, one must evolve to survive.
The 2016 MX-5 left the old Miata’s silly charm behind in favor of a sexier, aggressive look — fully in keeping with the automaker’s dry successful Kodo/Soul in Motion design philosophy. Those design principles have Mazda on a roll (pun intended), producing the new Mazda 3 and 6 – both players for car(s) of the year around the world in 2014. Mazda’s cars are now lighter, more aerodynamic and always properly balanced for the enjoyment of the dedicated driver — and rising sales price it’s popular.
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The redesigned MX-5 embraces Kodo completely. The rear haunches slope downward from a rear-mounted cockpit — reminiscent of a tiny Maserati. The hood stretches longer, sloping low to hooded headlights, a bit like an SRT Viper. There are no more rounded corners and pregnant wheel wells.
Exact specs and pricing are upcoming, but the car goes on sale next year. While enthusiasm ran high during the unveiling, time will tell if the new car’s nastier look will appeal across the board — or if some traditional Miata fans miss the silliness of the old design. Either way, it’s absolutely certain that this Mazda is no longer a toy. It’s a full-on driver’s car now.
