Wahhaj
10-15-2003, 02:55 PM
All-new MX-5 Takes Shape
http://home.comcast.net/~tashafan/mx5.jpg
How do you reinvent a legend? It's a question Mazda is close to answering as it puts the finishing touches to an all-new version of the MX-5. And these first official pictures show the classic design's evolution for the 21st century.
On display at next week's Tokyo Motor Show, the Ibuki is Mazda's concept 'taster' of how the forthcoming new MX-5, which is based on the platform of the RX-8, will look when it's launched in the UK at the end of 2005.
While the styling harks back to the MkI version, the new model will be far more distinctive. But it's to be just as involving to drive, thanks to the front-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout retained from the current-generation two-seater.
Although production versions of the MX-5 won't be as radical as the Ibuki, many features will remain. The Mazda badge at the rear doubles as a third brake light, while the minimalist dash and exposed paintwork in the interior take the roadster back to basics. And as the climate control system is housed in the seats, no air vents are needed.
When the new MX-5 is launched, buyers will have a choice of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines. There is talk of a rotary-powered flagship model, but that has yet to be confirmed.
Meanwhile, the current car's swan song will take the form of a 200bhp turbo version with revised front and rear styling, plus upgraded suspension. Sadly, Mazda doesn't plan to sell the car here. Chris Thorp
Source: Auto Express
http://home.comcast.net/~tashafan/mx5.jpg
How do you reinvent a legend? It's a question Mazda is close to answering as it puts the finishing touches to an all-new version of the MX-5. And these first official pictures show the classic design's evolution for the 21st century.
On display at next week's Tokyo Motor Show, the Ibuki is Mazda's concept 'taster' of how the forthcoming new MX-5, which is based on the platform of the RX-8, will look when it's launched in the UK at the end of 2005.
While the styling harks back to the MkI version, the new model will be far more distinctive. But it's to be just as involving to drive, thanks to the front-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout retained from the current-generation two-seater.
Although production versions of the MX-5 won't be as radical as the Ibuki, many features will remain. The Mazda badge at the rear doubles as a third brake light, while the minimalist dash and exposed paintwork in the interior take the roadster back to basics. And as the climate control system is housed in the seats, no air vents are needed.
When the new MX-5 is launched, buyers will have a choice of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines. There is talk of a rotary-powered flagship model, but that has yet to be confirmed.
Meanwhile, the current car's swan song will take the form of a 200bhp turbo version with revised front and rear styling, plus upgraded suspension. Sadly, Mazda doesn't plan to sell the car here. Chris Thorp
Source: Auto Express