Latest news with #MX-5Miata
Forbes
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
New Mazda MX-5 Miata To Get Bigger Engine And Maybe EV Spec
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF Sport Nav. (Photo by National Motor Museum/Heritage Images via Getty Images) Mazda's MX-5 Miata is by far the biggest selling roadster on the planet, boasting well over 1.2 million units sold since 1989. Having already gone through four generations, Mazda's chief designer Masashi Nakayama, confirmed recently in a Road & Track interview that he is now sculpting the exterior of the brand's fifth generation model—which will most probably be called the NE model. But before we progress too far into this story, I think it's important to let our readers know that Mazda's top executives all compete in endurance races in Japan piloting a race-spec MX-5, which is a lot more hands on than most other local carmakers, except maybe Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda who also competes in road racing and rallying. These guys are passionate about what they do and it shows in their cars. Mazda executives like Nakayama, and his colleagues including CEO Masahiro Moro, chief technical officer (CTO) Ryuichi Umeshita and former design chief Ikuo Maeda all take turns behind the wheel of an MX-5 in the annual 4-hour endurance race at Tsukuba Circuit. Now back to the car's design. Apart from the new design, which is expected to be an evolution of the current model, not a revolution, we can expect to see the next-gen get a choice of a larger Skyactiv-Z 2.5-liter internal combustion engined (ICE) version with the same power output as the current 181-hp 2.0 liter, and an optional fully electric model, that would probably arrive a year after the ICE model. No turbo model is being considered. "The U.S. requested that the car be larger and have more power when I began designing this fourth generation,' he says. I remember when Mazda were designing the 2nd generation back in the 90s, and the design department in those days said exactly the same thing about American requests. 'They want it bigger, with more power.' Didn't happen. To Mazda, that's not what a Miata is. 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF Sport Nav. (Photo by National Motor Museum/Heritage Images via Getty Images) From the very first generation way back in 1989, the car landed in showrooms with the catchphrase 'lightweight sports' and 'Jimba Ittai' which means 'car and driver as one.' To keep costs and emissions down, the car had to remain small and lightweight. Mazda has endeavored to follow that mantra over the last 35 years, and although the third generation, launched in 2005, did put on weight, the 4th generation 'ND' model went on a diet and reverted back towards the original model's 1000 kg (2200 lb) mark. And then came the most critical comment so far. 'When we consider the next-generation MX-5 Miata, we are thinking of making it less than one tonne in weight, and less than four meters in length,' said Nakayama. That's around 2200 pounds and 157 inches in length, which almost mimics the current model's 154 inches. These are definitive numbers pointing the way to a leaner, lighter next ND-gen 2.0-liter Miata, which makes it over 100 pounds lighter than the current 2330 pound ND-gen model. And because of this philosophy, the new coupe will continue to employ natural aspiration and won't require more power. Meanwhile, CTO Ryuichi Umeshita asserts that the power-to-weight ratio is sufficient at the moment. 'Since we can currently fully utilise and enjoy the engine's capability and capacity, we don't believe the car needs any more power. And expect the car to keep its 6-speed manual gearbox.' These are all reasons why the MX-5 has, in the past, won Britain's Top Gear Car of the Year award. While Nakayama is finalizing the 5th-gen's exterior and Umeshita is deciding on which powertrains to employ, don't expect to see the new model in showrooms any time before 2027. The bottom line to Umeshita is the car's subtle yet spritely performance. It is by no means a powerful car, but by efficiently and cleverly using the 2.0-liter engine at higher revs, drivers can enjoy the car's potential without breaking speeding limits. Umeshita also tells us that Mazda has thought about producing an electric MX-5. A few years ago, Japanese publications suggested that the next MX-5 would be powered by batteries, but the company decided to stick with gasoline for the time being, to keep weight down. While Mazda currently has one EV, the MX-30 SUV, it is not a big seller, one reason that is sure to delay any potential electric MX-5. A hybrid version was also rumored, but its extra weight in the motor and battery pack would nullify the structural adjustments to minimize weight. So the hybrid is currently shelved. Although a prototype has not yet been spied testing, it has been suggested that the Iconic SP sports car concept, which debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2023, may serve as a design preview. Fingers crossed that Mazda utilize the SP's gorgeous proportions.
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The Best Subcompact SUVs for 2025
A decade ago, most of these subcompact SUVs would have been marketed as hatchbacks. But now the crossover is king and even most entry-level shoppers are seeking tall seating positions, optional all-wheel drive, and extra cargo space. Because of their low price points, not all of these subcompact SUVs offer all-wheel drive, but they are all practical choices that will satisfy the needs of SUV shoppers on a budget. Ranked in order from best to worst, these are the small SUVs that get it right. More SUV Rankings: Best Small SUVs | Cheapest SUVs | Best Three-Row SUVs | Best Electric SUVs | Best Luxury Compact SUVs | Best Luxury Subcompact SUVs | Best Luxury Hybrid SUVsBase Price: $26,415 Mazda established its name in the U.S. with affordable performance cars like the MX-5 Miata, and while it still builds that fun-to-drive roadster, it has now firmly shifted its focus to the world of crossovers. The CX-30, the smallest of the lineup, may be more humble than the delightful CX-50, but it brings the engaging charm we expect from a Mazda to a smaller footprint. Although it's a bit more expensive than the other models here due to its standard all-wheel drive, the CX-30 remains one of the best offerings in its class. And it offers the same turbocharged 2.5-liter engine available in many other Mazdas, making it far more powerful than the other SUVs on this list. Tested: 2025 Mazda CX-30 TurboBase Price: $21,795 The Trax's most attractive element is its low base price, but there are other appealing factors as well. It's far more spacious than the previous-generation Trax, and it's pleasant to drive. The only engine option is a turbocharged 1.3-liter inline-three, and the transmission is a six-speed automatic, meaning it avoids the droning sensation found in many of the other models here that come with CVTs. The only real downside of the Trax is that it doesn't offer all-wheel drive. Tested: 2025 Chevrolet TraxBase Price: $26,000 Hyundai makes two small SUVs, and the Kona is the larger of the two. It was most recently redesigned for 2024 with a futuristic new look. The Kona is a strong offering in any form, but it is at its best with the more powerful turbo engine offered in the more expensive N-Line and Limited trim levels. All-wheel drive is optional with both the turbo engine and the base 2.0-liter inline-four. The driver-focused Kona N from the previous generation has been discontinued, but we're hoping it makes its return soon. The Electric Version Is a Great EV for the MoneyPrice: $25,095 Say goodbye to the bulky bubble of Grandma Doris' bingo buggy: Buick finally decided to slick back its hair with the Envista, a stylish new entry-level model that joined the lineup for 2025. The Envista, which has a similar rakish roofline to many of today's "coupe" SUV models, is meant to attract younger buyers. The most enticing element is the starting price of just over $25,000, while the standard turbocharged 2-liter inline-three engine is less intriguing. Think of the Envista as a slightly upscale version of the Chevrolet Trax also found on this list. Learn More about the EnvistaBase Price: $27,230 The Crosstrek is a megahit, as it's now one of the bestselling Subaru models. It takes the Impreza hatchback one step further thanks to its extra ground clearance that provides just enough capability to get Subaru's owners to the start of their outdoor adventures. It may lack some of the charm of the outgoing model, but Subaru's latest should be a winner with buyers. There's already an off-road-oriented Wilderness trim, and a hybrid model will join the lineup for 2026, promising better fuel economy and more horsepower than the standard versions. More Info on the Crosstrek Hybrid Arriving SoonPrice: $26,795 The Honda HR-V is a practical and sensible choice. It's spacious, fuel-efficient, and pleasant, but it doesn't offer much to distinguish itself from the other crossovers in this class. The base powertrain is an underpowered 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and a CVT is the only transmission available. The interior is versatile and modern, with good tech offerings. It's essentially a smaller sibling to the popular Honda CR-V, but it doesn't offer that model's enticing hybrid powertrain. We Prefer the Larger CR-V over the HR-VBase Price: $28,385 Kia's second-generation Niro brings a bold new design detail: a contrasting side blade reminiscent of the first-generation Smart ForTwo. The hybrid version is the cheapest of the bunch, but there's also a plug-in-hybrid model and even a fully-electric variant, both of which are available at a significant price premium. None offer all-wheel drive, but they are rated at up to 53 mpg combined by the EPA, an impressive number for a vehicle with this much cargo space. See More of Our Favorite Small Hybrid CarsBase price: $23,220 Thanks to its redesign for 2025, the Kicks went from a middling value player to one of the more interesting-looking SUVs in its class. The new design is cool, and it has substance to back up the style thanks to a more powerful engine and newly available all-wheel drive. Both of these additions enhance the driving experience, although the Kicks still isn't much of a drag-racer given that it only has 141 horsepower. Best of all, the base price isn't up by much, and you get lots of equipment for the money. It's Among the Least-Expensive New Cars You Can BuyBase Price: $21,650 The Hyundai Venue may not be as complete an offering as its Kona stablemate, but it provides exceptional value. At just over $21,000, it is one of the best deals in any market and provides a low entry point into Hyundai's lineup. The main sacrifice you'll make is in the powertrain department, as the tiny 1.6-liter inline-four doesn't provide much power, and front-wheel drive is the only drivetrain choice. It's One of the Cheapest SUVs You Can BuyBase Price: $21,885 Remember cars like the Scion xB and Honda Element? The original Kia Soul was part of a trend when it first arrived, but now it's the only of these box-shaped cars to survive. Beyond the straightforward proportions and the memorable hamster ads, the Soul stands out with its small and maneuverable size and low entry price. Front-wheel drive is the only setup available, but it's surprisingly refined to drive for the Price: $26,585 If you're not satisfied by either of Kia's other offerings in this segment, the Soul and the Niro, perhaps the slightly larger Seltos will have what you're looking for. It provides more space inside than either of those, an optional turbocharged engine, and available all-wheel drive. However, you'll pay considerably more for these benefits, as the Seltos sits at a higher price point and can reach well over $30,000 once you start adding the most desirable Price: $26,420 Unlike some of the other cars on this list, the Taos looks like a real SUV. It has a handsome squared-off look and has plenty of space inside, while also offering optional all-wheel drive. Although the VW Jetta compact sedan remains VW's entry-level model, the Taos effectively replaces the old Golf hatchback on dealer lots, as that model is now offered in the U.S. only in performance-oriented Golf GTI and Golf R configurations. An update for 2025 brings a bit of extra power for the turbo-four, as it now makes 174 hp. Tested: 2025 Volkswagen TaosBase Price: $25,485 The Corolla Cross is one of seven distinct SUVs made by Toyota, but it is the only one that sits at an entry-level price point. The base powertrain is a lackluster 2.0-liter inline-four, but it does offer all-wheel drive. Even the optional hybrid model starts at $29,845, offering considerably better fuel economy and better acceleration but still squeaking in under the $30,000 mark. You Might Also Like You Need a Torque Wrench in Your Toolbox Tested: Best Car Interior Cleaners The Man Who Signs Every Car
Yahoo
16-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The 10 cars with the highest resale value
Buying a new car has never been more expensive — so if you plan to sell yours in a few years, choosing one that holds its value is key. All cars depreciate the moment they leave the lot, but some lose value much faster than others. CarEdge analyzed millions of car listings and automotive data to identify the vehicles that retain their resale value best after five years. Keep reading to find out which cars offer the best long-term value. The Subaru (FUJHY) Impreza ranked tenth, maintaining 71.79% of its value after 5 years. The Toyota (TM) Corolla ranked ninth, maintaining 71.95% of its value after 5 years. The Toyota Tacoma ranked eighth, maintaining 72.09% of its value after 5 years. The Mazda (MZDAY) MX-5 Miata ranked seventh, maintaining 72.17% of its value after 5 years. The Honda (HMC) CR-V ranked sixth, maintaining 72.27% of its value after 5 years. The Honda HR-V ranked fifth, maintaining 72.92% of its value after 5 years. The Toyota RAV4 ranked fourth, maintaining 73.10% of its value after 5 years The Toyota Land Cruiser ranked third, maintaining 73.83% of its value after 5 years. The Toyota 4Runner ranked second, maintaining 73.88% of its value after 5 years. The Jeep (STLA) Wrangler ranked first, maintaining 75.12% of its value after 5 years. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Yahoo
13-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Tested: 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
For 35 years, the MX-5 Miata has been the affordable flagship for the entire roadster category. As other mini two-seaters came and went, Mazda remained committed to a lightweight sports car with a soft top and a manual transmission. The RF arrived in 2016 as a deviation from that time-honored format, switching the roadster's fabric hood for a folding hard top. This brings extra weight and complexity, two things the Miata has always stood against, but the updated ND3-generation RF still has an abundance of charm for those in search of something a little different. Our expert editors test every vehicle we review. Read more about how we test and review cars here. The fourth-generation Miata is entering its second decade and its second revision. The latest update, referred to as ND3, is highlighted by new LED lights and a new two-way limited-slip differential. Other upgrades include adaptive cruise control, a Track dynamic stability-control setting that gives a looser intervention threshold, and steering changes meant to improve driver feedback. The RF hardtop is only available with Club and Grand Touring specs. Add in the price of the more complicated roof, and the Miata MX-5 RF starts at a hefty $38,735, more than $4000 above the equivalent softtop Club variant. Both RF variants come with the limited-slip differential and stiffer "sport-tuned" suspension as standard, but Grand Touring buyers will lose both if they opt for the optional automatic transmission. Vehicle Tested: 2025 Mazda MX-5 RF Miata Base Price: $38,735 Price as tested: $42,285 Location: Tampa Bay, Florida Engine: 1998cc inline-fourPower: 181 hp @ 7000 rpmTorque: 151 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm0-60 mph: 5.5-sec (Car and Driver testing)Transmission: six-speed manualWeight: 2469 poundsEPA MPG: 26 / 34 / 29 (City / Highway / Combined) The Miata has evolved in a few ways over its long life, but the core appeal remains the same. This is still the lightest sports car that a major manufacturer could reasonably sell at an affordable price point, and the lack of mass is still what defines its appeal. The ND3-generation MX-5 remains nimble, responsive, and more thrilling at everyday speeds than the faster performance cars that typically spend their lives much further from their dynamic limits. In practice, the biggest appeals of the Miata are those limitations. The hardtop does not turn the Miata into a do-it-all grand tourer, nor is the car an all-powerful track-day special to deliver exceptional lap times. Objectively, it is a tiny, compromised car. Yet one that can deliver joy at any speed, including ones that are actually legal on the country's best driving roads. Pushing further and exploring the limits is the whole point of the Miata MX-5. As always, it remains friendly and responsive—communicating clearly as it gets close to its well-flagged boundaries. This car is a great teacher, one that feels at its best while being worked hard. It is no wonder that all generations of the Miata have always been such popular track-day companions. The 2.0-liter inline-four engine is the only powertrain option for ND3 buyers in the U.S., and it is still a highlight. Raw power is not the car's strength, but the character and willingness of the free-revving engine are cornerstones of what makes the Miata MX-5 so satisfying to drive. Every run to that 7500-rpm redline is thrilling. The lack of low-down torque is a limitation, but it does also mean that owners have plenty of opportunity to reach the fun part of the rev band in everyday driving. The engine pairs best with Mazda's solid six-speed manual. Yes, the Miata MX-5 RF can be had with an automatic transmission, although only on the most expensive Grand Touring trim. But both roadster and hardtop models are at their best with a stick and a third pedal. Choosing the RF over the softtop brings a weight penalty of around 100 pounds. Even carrying that, the hardtop is still light and lithe compared to every other sports car on the market; the Subaru BRZ tS is more than 400 pounds heavier. But it does deny the RF the ultimate agility of its roadster sibling. Everything great about a Miata is also responsible for everything terrible about a Miata. The tightness of the exterior dimensions means the small, cramped interior still does not have a conventional glovebox. Cupholders mounted to the back of the cabin struggle at just about every goal a cupholder is meant to accomplish. The roadster's already-small trunk is compromised even further by the need to house a folding hard top. These frustrations make it a poor daily for anyone unwilling to sacrifice creature comforts for driving joy. While the Miata is not targeting those buyers, the RF does feel compromised by its attempt to broaden its appeal with the moving hard top. The folding top looks great both up and down, but the visual upgrade it brings may be the biggest benefit of selecting the RF. The cabin is certainly quieter than that of the roadster with the hard top raised, but noise levels are still well above what a buyer would face in a more conventional car. A blind spot on the driver's left side becomes a permanent feature in the RF because the buttresses on the side of the targa-like rear roof structure are always present. Wind buffeting with the top down, a problem on the RF since it was introduced, is subjectively worse than the simpler roadster. Worst of all, the closing hard-top mechanism lacks the simplicity of the soft top. The Miata roadster's roof is so light that, despite the lack of power assistance, an experienced driver can open or close it at speed with a single motion. The RF's three-part hard top is power-operated, but it is a much longer process to operate it. Ultimately, the Miata MX-5 remains a very easy car to recommend in any format. It is a great sports car for anyone and particularly good as an introduction to the things that make driving so fun in the first place. The ND3 is another evolution of what had already become the best Miata ever with its last refresh. It is always the answer for a reason. If you think you might enjoy one, you should probably buy one. Since the Miata is the last two-seat sports car standing below $50,000, its biggest competition is internal. Most Miata buyers, the ones who buy a two-seat convertible for all of the charms and are happy to live with the drawbacks, will be happier with the roadster. The RF model is a good fit for someone who will mostly be driving with the roof up, although buyers completely uninterested in top-down antics might be happier in the Toyota GR86 or near-identical Subaru BRZ. Well-balanced handling, communicative steering, and well-flagged limits. Lightness and agility has been (largely) preserved through the generations. High-revving engine is deeply satisfying to work hard. The hefty price jump from the roadster to the RF. Extra complexity in a car that thrives on simplicity. The roadster may make more sense as the Miata to buy, but the RF looks spectacular. Particularly with the roof up, the ND looks like it was designed to have the retractable-fastback top on it from the beginning. You Might Also Like You Need a Torque Wrench in Your Toolbox Tested: Best Car Interior Cleaners The Man Who Signs Every Car
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
7 Secrets that Make Mazda SUVs and Sedans Fan Favorites — and 1 Common Complaint
Why do people love Mazda so much? It's not just that they flat-out look good: Mazda SUVs and sedans cars have evolved elegantly over time into one of the most sublime brands on the road. Exterior design is on point, from front ends that are perfectly tapered to the well proportioned rear ends that don't look bulky but do the job when it comes to cargo. Inside Mazda's SUVs and sedans are elegantly appointed and designed with a sense of zen that keeps chaos at bay. And then, they are fun to drive. Still building on the reputation of 'zoom zoom,' Mazda's SUVs and sedans, as well as the MX-5 Miata sports car, are known for being fun on the road—but what do they do differently? That is just one of the secrets of this car brand with a dedicated following. Another secret is that Mazda SUVs and sedans are affordable, yet still retain a refined design sensibility and a fun feel; the company has positioned them as 'premium,' and that idea comes through in each of these 7 delicious secrets that make these cars so lovable. This story is 100% human researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks. Soul Red Crystal Metallic. I'll just start here. It's so deeply reflective you can use it to touch up your makeup. The color is so pensive you can look at it all day. I'd plaster my walls in it if I could What makes it, as well as other colors on the Mazda palette, so beautiful? Mazda's paint process layers pigment with translucent color and clear coat until the finish is almost foil-like, deep and reflective. The sinuous panels and simple creases in the body of each model further reflect the depth of the color. And it's mesmerizing. Mazda SUVs and sedans are largely thought to have the best red paint in the auto biz. Read: Navigating the Great Outdoors in the 2024 Mazda CX-50 'Do you really need premium fuel? Or can you use regular' is a debate car enthusiasts and fearful motorists have all the time. Many car makers *recommend* premium fuel, but aren't clear why. Others just recommend regular. Mazda tells you up front exactly why: You can generate more power using premium in its models dubbed 'turbo.' In the Mazda CX-30 Turbo for instance, you'll generate 227 HP using regular gas but 250 HP using premium. In the CX-90 Turbo you'll produce 280 HP with regular gas but 332 with premium. Check the engine specs to be sure the model you're looking at will get a boost from using premium before loading up on it. Isn't that clever? And transparent? Read: A Torque Story Part Deux: The Mazda CX-30 Turbo SUV Will Make Your Soul Soar We can't love this little detail more. Mazda wanted to fast track a hybrid to the market so it partnered with the top hybrid maker, Toyota. The hybrid system found in the Mazda CX-50 is the same found in the Toyota RAV4 hybrid. The similarities pretty much end there. The RAV4 then follows its own adventurous spirit down the trim trail, while the Mazda SUV goes upscale with leather, tailored details and a competitive price. Read: Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Which is Better? Mazda was the first carmaker to offer head up displays to drivers of small, sporty but affordable cars. That's because it's as much a safety feature as it is a luxury. Back in the day, Mazda's HUD systems were clever little screens that sat on top of the dashboard; today they are fully integrated into the dash and as sophisticated as any on the market with turn by turn directions, radio information and road signs. Where Mazda still differs from the rest of the market, however, is that nearly all its models offer a HUD and it can be had at almost every level. The MX-5 Miata is the exception, but you can't have everything. This is another Mazda principle we can get behind: everyone should have leather, or it's nearly indiscernible cousin, leatherette. In fact, only a few base models even offer cloth trim; the rest offer leather or its alternative. But better than those options, leather isn't a budget-buster. It's a standard of quality. And all who have had sweaty footballers, spilling toddlers or drooling dogs in the rear seat know: Cloth seats, once soiled, will never be redeemed. If you're like me, you love a manual transmission. It's a driver's treasure, putting you at one with the machine, making you work for the fun and rewarding you with the feeling of accomplishment. And, it's just pure fun and how (many say) a car should be driven. But going with the wisdom of the masses, most car makers have given up on the stick shift, adding paddle shifters or maybe, ambient lighting and louder sound systems to make us forget that being behind the wheel should be fun. Not Mazda. The company will never, so they say, give up manuals in the MX-5 Miata or the Mazda 3. Arigatō. Many drivers struggle to find the right seat position, risking poor visibility, or worse, from a sore back and neck to lack of control over the car. But no amount of lumbar support or neck-craning can improve your control when you can't see the road. So, Mazda created a Driver Personalization System for the CX-90 and CX-70. This system takes just a few minutes to set up using in-car cameras and prompts on the multimedia system to adjust the seat position, height and mirrors so that your eyes are perfectly aligned to your ideal field of vision. Then, it records the settings to your driver profile so you'll always be perfectly situated for your drive. Read: 6 Driving Mistakes You're Making — and 6 Minutes to Being a Better Driver And that's just the start of complaints with the multimedia system: Even fans of Mazda complain that the system feels dated; its graphics haven't changed much over the years, and it offers has limited features, lacking things like voice activated assistance. Also, Mazda has continued to use a dial controller on the center console to operate the system because it helps to keep the driver's eyes focused on the road, which of course, is safer. There is one little work-around, however, which might be secret #8: the screen is touch-sensitive in newer models when Apple CarPlay is in use. Maybe drivers who know this are the ones who don't complain; they simply hop in and zoom-zoom. The rest don't care enough to abandon Mazda. Which is not a surprise. The entire lineup, top to bottom, is filled with delight. More must-reads: The Best Foldable Stroller Wagons for Travel, Family Beach Trips and More Have you heard about Ford Warriors in Pink?
