Wednesday 26th October 2016

Mazda MX-5 concepts for SEMA previewed

What to do with the super light Speedster concept? Make it lighter still!

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Understandably, Mazda has made much of its efforts to reduce weight in the latest MX-5. Here's a sports car that's as safe and as efficient as a new model needs to be in 2016, yet is smaller and lighter than its predecessor and in fact weighs just 1,000kg. But Mazda hasn't stopped there...

Taking the charcoal theme to the max

At SEMA last year it showed the Speedster concept, a beautiful thing that showed what a pared back MX-5 could look like if Mazda was allowed to make one. Seemingly not content with making a 943kg car, Mazda has had another go for this year's Specialty Equipment Marketing Association show with the Speedster Evolution. Painted in White Ether this car is said to be another 100 pounds (45kg) lighter again, taking the Speedster below 900kg. Remarkable. Mazda hasn't yet detailed how this has been done, so hopefully a few more details will emerge when the show opens next week.

The other MX-5 concept created by Mazda's design team in California is the RF Kuro. Derived from the new Retractable Fastback, it features forged Rays wheels, BF Goodrich tyres and the adjustable suspension from the MX-5 Global Cup car. Is Mazda planning a racier RF already? It's also painted in a 'semi-matt metallic concept colour' called Kuro, which is Japanese for charcoal.

Mazda says both cars "showcase contrasting directions that create a 'Mazda Premium' experience", hopefully suggesting that the MX-5 range could expand further. That the press release mentions "paying homage to Mazda's performance heritage" also sounds encouraging. More details and pictures to follow next week!

[robinwhittleton]

Kuro is Japanese for ‘black’. Charcoal is ‘mokutan’.