Gossips of an update to the powertrain under the next iconic Mazda MX-5 roadster have been discussed yet again. Autocar UK shared their insights that Mazda will continue to keep the next-generation MX-5 with only one power source, adding more information to what was previously mentioned.
The powertrain in question has now turned to the highly complicated, lean-burning Skyactiv X engine, which includes a low-pressure supercharger, high compression ratio, compression ignition and belt-driven integrated starter-generator mild-hybrid assistance.
The latest 2.0-litre engine, renamed to e-Skyactiv X, produces 186 hp at 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 240 Nm at 4,000 rpm. Updates to the engine include adjusting the compression ratio from 16.3:1 to 15.0:1, modifying pistons, camshaft, and updating the mild-hybrid system’s software.
With the Mazda MX-5 designed around the targets of low mass and compactness to deliver the intended driving connection between man and machine or ‘Jibba Ittai’, the company can afford to have the relatively high emission next-gen MX-5 to continue with just pure combustion engine power.
Coupling with ultra-low sales volume and pooling their yearly CO2 emissions rating with Toyota and their highly efficient hybrid engines, Mazda should easily meet the European Union’s reducing targets with ease.
There are at least eight years to go until 2030, where Mazda announced that its entire product line-up will be electrified, with at least 25% being fully electric. Thus, the sixth-generation MX-5, if it sees the light of day, will then only feature a more powerful hybrid powertrain in 2030, or even fully electric to challenge Lotus.
The current fourth-generation (ND) Mazda MX-5 is powered by a naturally-aspirated SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre engine with outputs of 181 hp and 205 Nm of torque. Although lightweight, low and compact, fuel consumption is nothing spectacular at 14.7 km/litre, worse than a much larger and heavier Mazda 3 hatchback.
Bermaz Motor is selling the Mazda MX-5 in both manual and automatic transmission, albeit in just the RF retracting hardtop roof, for approx. RM260,500, with the former RM2,000 cheaper.
