2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata first drive - Autoweek
Mazda engineers began with a solid strategy: Bring the MX-5 back to its roots as a pure, lightweight sports car yet still make it, euphemistically, “a product suited to today’s needs. Still, Mazda managed to shave 220 lbs from the 2016 (ND generation for the Anoraks) Miata while creating a thoroughly modern cockpit and driving experience. As you'd expect, aluminum construction plays a big part in the Miata’s weight-loss program. The hood, trunk lid and front fenders are aluminum, as are hidden bits like the steering knuckles, upper and lower front control arms, engine cradle and the rear hub supports. The resulting North American-spec MX-5 -- on sale in late summer 2015 -- will have a curb weight only about 200 lbs heavier than the original Miata, yet still meet far more stringent crash and pedestrian impact requirements. Designers managed to make the car lower and wider, eliminating the fender flares that gave NC Miatas an artificially beefed-up character line. Inside, the MX-5 has also grown up, but just enough -- an available screen-based infotainment system provides all the expected connectivity and nav options in a modern vehicle, but the simple controls and minimalist center stack still convey the... Source: autoweek.com
