The current-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata has been around for quite a while. The ND era launched in 2014 for the 2015 model year, and now we’re getting our first look at what should be the NE model. However, your attention shouldn’t fall on the camouflaged face, smiling as it is. The real action is happening beneath this skin, as we believe this is a test mule wearing a modified ND body.ù
We’ll give credit to Mazda for being supremely clever here. At a glance, one might see this as a prototype wearing a small facelift. It’s certainly not uncommon for automakers to wrap an entire nose in camo wrap for even small changes, but as far as we can tell, there’s nothing different about this Miata’s grinning front clip. The headlights look unchanged, as do the slim corner vents and that happy-as-heck grille.
Mazda has said the next-generation MX-5 will continue with its own rear-wheel-drive platform and a gasoline engine. However, a 48-volt mild-hybrid powertrain could enter the mix. Mazda also previously said a 10-year life cycle for its sports car isn’t a problem, which makes 2024 a likely timeframe to see the new model revealed.
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