at Autocar
have secured what may be called a scoop on the development of the
Alfa Spider/Mazda MX-5
project. Sergio Marchionne wants all Alfas to be built in Italy and the new roadster won't be, meaning it could carry a Fiat or Abarth badge. Have all notions of a romantic Alfa Spider return been dashed?
Back-to-basics promised for new MX-5
Furthermore, Autocar's source at Mazda has confirmed the MX-5 will use one of its fancy new Skyactiv engines. The 1.5-litre unit recently introduced to the 3 makes 100hp and 111lb ft. Though the MX-5 promises to be much lighter in its fourth generation, will that be enough? More powerful options will of course arrive soon enough. Expect them all to feature the Skyactiv tech has Mazda continues its laudable campaign to keep naturally aspirated petrol engines relevant.
A concept to mark the 25th anniversary of the MX-5 is due at the New York show, which should give some clue as to how the new car will look in 2015.
And that's all the news there is for now. Speculation as to the actual car will have to continue for a little longer, with Mazda hopefully revealing a little more at New York. Stay tuned...