Next-generation Mazda MX-5 will be more dramatic

There has been a lot of debate between designers and dealers on the next-generation Mazda MX-5. Mazda’s new design chief, Lauren Van den Acker, is now saying that the next Mazda MX-5 needs to be radical, a big step from the current model. Originally, dealers didn’t want a major change from the current model since customers were happy with the shape - yet the design team wanted to go all out and offer the market something fresh and new.

“The last one was too conservative and we can’t do another car like that. We need to make it more dramatic and give it some balls,” said Van den Acker in an interview with AutoCar.

The 4th generation model will arrive in...
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dlin - 8/26/2008 4:01:05 PM

+5 Boost

All it needs is a rotary or turbo.

Agent63 - 8/26/2008 7:41:18 PM

+1 Boost

They should just dump the turbo from the MazdaSpeed Protege in there if it fits and it should be more "dramatic".

Htay7500 - 8/26/2008 8:27:36 PM

+1 Boost

They're gonna have to call up callaway (they made the mps protegges turbo) or take the one thats currently in mps 3.

M35MT - 8/26/2008 4:22:44 PM

+2 Boost

Well what they should do is make it look more like a "Mazda". The brand has really good recognition in terms of design across the whole range (minus the Tribute, B-series and Miata) while the Cx-7 still looks different enough from, say the Mazda5.

It will be interesting to see what they come up with. If executed well, they might draw in even more customers making it an even bigger seller.

WorldofLuxury - 8/26/2008 6:48:35 PM

+1 Boost

"Hardcore" racers can buy old Miatas and tune them up, while the new one becomes a car for a bigger market.
However, there's always a little space for another model. :) (I don't recommend it 'cause it might interfere with the RX-8 in a way.)

WorldofLuxury - 8/26/2008 6:50:07 PM

+1 Boost

"Hardcore" racers can buy old Miatas and tune them up, while the new one becomes a car for a bigger market.
However, there's always a little space for another model. :) (I don't recommend it 'cause it might interfere with the RX-8 in a way.)

WorldofLuxury - 8/26/2008 6:50:45 PM

0 Boost

whoops...sorry for the double comment

DWolff - 8/26/2008 7:36:28 PM

+1 Boost

Give it a Rotary and i'll be first in line to buy one and maybe they should try an MX-5 coupe <--(just a suggestion)

E36er - 8/27/2008 1:42:07 AM

+2 Boost

Giving the Mx-5 "balls" is a great idea. It's a great car but it definitely has a hair dresser quality about it.

AmazonPrinceIS350 - 8/27/2008 8:14:25 AM

0 Boost

My hair dresser has a white range rover sport & a white Porche Boxter. He only likes white German cars.

sector - 8/27/2008 1:44:39 PM

0 Boost

You should report him sounds like a KKK member :)

jpighetti - 8/28/2008 9:39:46 AM

+2 Boost

I've always believed the Range Rover to be the finest German SUV ever built...

FerrarisR4me - 8/27/2008 10:54:51 AM

+1 Boost

There's nothing wrong w/ the shape of the car... I mean sure, its nothing to lust after, it could def be spiced up- but lets get some more power under the hood!

mini22 - 8/27/2008 12:32:50 PM

+1 Boost

I would say it needs a little bit more power-say 200HP out of that engine or a larger 4 cylinder and direct injection for fuel economy. Further a tuned intake and exhaust to give it a bit more noise. I would increase the front and rear tracks one inch each.Other then the planned restyle of the nose and tail I would leave it alone. One thing Mazda has to continue to be careful about is keeping the price where it is. A $35 grand Miata will not sell.

num1insales - 8/27/2008 5:28:01 PM

0 Boost

The body is out dated the mazda really needs to step into the times. Not saying the car does not have its value but the style is in the past...