PREVIEW: 2016 Mazda MX-5, longer, lighter

Michael James

With events held simultaneously in California, Spain and Tokyo, the 2016 Mazda MX-5 was unveiled Sept. 3 as a lighter, more angular fourth generation of the best-selling two-seat roadster in history.

Introduced 25 years ago, the Mazda MX-5, formerly known as the Miata, had reached total production of 940,000 units in July to correspond to the car’s 25th anniversary.

The Mazda MX-5, which is expected to go on sale next year, is also expected to make its North American debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

According to a report in the Los Angeles Times, Mazda didn’t announced many details despite its three-city extravaganza. Engine specifications, for example, were not available. But the roadster is expected to stay much the same — with a few exceptions.

2016 Mazda MX-5

It will be four cylinders, rear-wheel drive and feature a six-speed stick shift, with an automatic transmission optional.

Mazda has streamlined the MX-5. It will be about 220 pounds lighter that its predecessor, three inches shorter and and a half-inch narrow the original 1990 model.

The original Miata cost $13,800 in 1990.

Article Last Updated: September 4, 2014.

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