No Turbo and Electric Steering for 2016 Mazda Miata MX-5 [Preview]

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2016 Mazda Miata MX-5

Mazda dropped the next few tit-bits of information about the upcoming fourth generation 2016 Mazda Miata MX-5. We still do not know the horsepower, but Mazda says that the next Miata will have two engine options. Both are of the direct-injected and very high compression SKYACTIV-G variety. The 2.0L four-cylinder motor is reserved for the United States. A smaller 1.5L SKYACTIV-G will be available in Europe and other markets.

The great news is that a 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission will be available for those who find joy in driving. Mazda promises the manual to be “crisp” and we do not have any reason to doubt them.

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A pause for concern comes when the Paris Auto Show MX-5 specification sheet reads “Electric power assisted rack & pinion”. Can Mazda deliver an electrically assisted power steering system as good as hydraulic systems in Miatas from the past?

Mazda did not release any horsepower or torque numbers at this time. They will continue to tease us.

2016_mazda_miata_mx-5_side_xray

We do know the the 2.0L SKYACTIV-G motor in the 2015 Mazda3 produces 155 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Mazda says that the 2016 Miata drivetrains have been “specially tuned” for the roadster. So, it’s fair to assume a slightly higher output and/or higher rpms. The new MX-5 is about 220 pounds lighter than the current drop-top, and about 600 pounds lighter than a comparable Mazda3. Perhaps they can push the output of the new engine to 167 hp and at least match the output of the current car?

Let us know what you think about this in the comments. You can learn everything else we know about the 2016 Mazda Miata MX-5 at TFLcar.com.

 

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov

Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, video producer, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFL since 2011.