Dear Mazda, Please Don’t Ruin The Next MX-5

2024 MX-5 RF GT

This 2024 Mazda MX-5 I'm driving today is an RF GT, making 181 HP and 151 lb-ft of torque from it's N/A 2.0L inline 4 Skyactiv engine. Rumors and concepts of the next generation MX-5 have been stirring for quite some time and although the 2024 model year brings important changes, we're ready to see the next one.

Mazda has stated one of their goals is for all models to include some form of electrification by 2030. In simple terms, what we can expect is a ton of previously combustion-only vehicles beefed up and supplemented by electric motors. I'm not sure about you, but from where I'm standing as long as it doesn't interfere with that glorious 6-speed manual action that has defined the foundation of the MX-5 from the beginning, I'll be welcoming it with open arms. 

There are clues, however, that the next MX-5 won't have any gasoline combustion directly powering the driven wheels, nor any pistons at all. If you've had your finger on the pulse recently you may have seen the Mazda Iconic SP, an evolution of the original RX-Vision concept. The overall consensus at large is correct: it's beautiful. Rather than replacing the MX-5 though, the Iconic SP is looking to usher in the next generation RX car or something of a similar size. Despite not being a full EV, it may as well be. Call me a cynic, but stuffing a rotary engine back into a stunning new model, only to have it act as a generator for the electric motors is worse than a future where we never see the rotary engine at all. The point is feel. As a generator, we won't feel the engine at all. 

I'm not opposed to electric motors aiding in torque fill and efficiency in our sports cars, but the current MX-5 is already incredibly efficient, clocking 7.6 L/100 kms (31 mpg) over the seven days I spent behind the wheel. We can only hope Mazda hears us and delivers a next generation MX-5 that captures the same feel we've come to expect over this thirty-five year run. 

You will find our video on the future of the MX-5 below! Feel free to let us know how you feel in the comments. 

Enjoy!