Mazda's design boss, Lauren Van den Acker, told
Autocar that the company's next MX-5 will be significantly less conservative than the
current model.
"The next MX-5 needs to be a big step," said Van de Acker. "The last one was too conservative and we can't do another car like that. We need to make it more dramatic and give it some balls."
The fourth generation of the MX-5 will not change in its dynamicism and will keep its rear-wheel drive layout. The 2012-scheduled model should also be lighter and more fuel efficient than the current roadster.
According to
Autocar, another senior Mazda designer mentioned internal debate about the future of the MX-5. "Last time round [designing the current car] we came up with lots of radical proposals and we may reignite one of those," said an insider. A third senior Mazda source said the company's recent concepts will influence the design of the next generation MX-5.
As for the current model, leaked patent documents show that a facelift is on the way, which will visually reflect Mazda's new design philosophy. It will make its debut at
October's motor show in Paris.
Dejan Jovanovic - 28 Aug 2008