Mazda Takes the Next MX-5 Miata Down the Hybrid Road

To meet future emissions regulations, the Mazda MX-5 Miata will be made with a hybrid powertrain. We could see other changes as well.

The Miata is one of very few sports roadsters available in the market. Since it arrived, the Miata name has brought active driving and fun to the Mazda name. This little sports car is sold around the world, which makes the upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations a major challenge for this car and this brand. Its seems the European market is just as serious as the American market about working toward electric vehicles.

Hybridization Could Change the Miata

It comes as no surprise to anyone that nearly every car in the world has to change to meet new regulations. As Europe becomes stricter, fewer naturally aspirated and turbocharged vehicles will survive, while hybrid and electric cars will take their place. Considering the strict new regulations, hybrid powertrains are the solution to what Mazda needs for the new Miata. This is a great way to keep some form of the gas engine alive, meet regulations, and avoid betraying the fans of this car. It might change the Miata, but it could make it better.

Mazda has talked About Miata Changes Before

The company has talked about pushing the Mazda MX-5 Miata toward future driving systems before. In fact, in 2021, Mazda discussed the possibility of electrifying this small roadster. This could still be on the table because Mazda plans to electrify all vehicles by 2030, and we don’t expect the Miata to be gone from the lineup.

Although Mazda will likely add a hybrid powertrain for the Miata, followed by an EV version, they don’t intend to use the new mild-hybrid inline six-cylinder engine developed for their SUV in the sports car. This would change the car and not allow it to be what we’ve had from the MX-5 for many years.

Could the New Miata Use a Completely Different Style?

There are more than a few rumors swirling that the new Miata would be restyled to be nearly identical to the Vision Study Concept car. This car showed up in November with flowing lines and a longer build to offer something that looks more like an adult sports car than the Miata. We’re still unsure whether this concept is the future of the MX-5, but it certainly would change the game for the Miata.

Mazda Leaves Us In the Dark?

Have we learned anything concrete? Not really. We know the next version of the Mazda MX-5 Miata might have a hybrid powertrain, it might have some inspiration from the Vision Study Concept, and the team has already begun development of the next generation of this roadster. This is probably all we really know. The new model was seen wearing camouflage in the front with wires running along the rear. This model is a current generation version, which is likely nothing more than a testing mule for the powertrain, but we can dream of what this new car might be.

In the Meantime; The Current Miata is Pretty Cool

The Miata is a brilliant machine in every form. Before the new model arrives and adds a hybrid powertrain, you could drive the Miata, that has everything you want to enjoy. This car is one of the coolest little cars ever made. As long as you don’t need a practical car for a family, you can enjoy everything this Mazda roadster delivers to your drive and experience an amazing drive wherever you need to go.

Did You Know There’s a Hardtop Version?

It’s not brand new information, but some still think of the Mazda MX-5 Miata as a car that only has a soft top convertible roof. Every model of this roadster is a convertible, but the RF model is a Retractable Fastback roof which gives you the hardtop you want. The RF version offers this car a more mature style, and the coupe build that you want to see and enjoy. It takes 13 seconds to open or close the roof and it adds a little more weight, but neither is a reason not to buy the RF version of the Miata.

This Car Only Takes Driving Seriously

Sometimes, sports cars feel like they’re too expensive to be fun. Even if they have all of the power and performance bits you want, the high price might make you hold back. That’s not the case with the Miata. This is one of the most affordable sports cars in the market today. This car is meant to be fun on the roads where the speed must be kept in line, steering, and handling are more important to the pleasure of the drive. If you want to experience a car that’s truly a joy on any road, you’ll want to get behind the wheel of the Miata.

The Steering Performance Enhanced in the Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata includes Kinematic Posture Control, which is about the superb cornering and handling o this car. The KPC system applies a subtle amount of braking to the inside rear wheel during fast turns. This allows the steering to feel great, reduces body roll, and ensures this car is extremely stable while in the corners. Although this Mazda has always been a terrific car through the corners. This feature adds a bit more to the mix for a lot more fun.

Yes, There Is Enough Power in this Car

While we wait for the hybrid version of the Miata, which could ruin things, we can still admire and enjoy the impressive powertrain that gives you enough for the fun you want. The powertrain is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. It might not sound like much, but when you take this lightweight roadster out on public roads for a fun run through some turns, you’ll realize there’s more than enough power in this car.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata should come with a warning that this car seeks out the winding roads and always puts a smile on your face. If you’re looking for a small roadster that’s fun to drive, you can’t go wrong with the Miata. Hopefully, that will still be true when the hybrid version arrives.