Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept Heading to Frankfurt Show

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept Heading to Frankfurt Show

At the Frankfurt Motor Show Mazda in September, Mazda will present a special concept version of its current generation MX-5 / Miata Roadster as part of the celebrations for the car's 20th anniversary. Designed at Mazda's studio in Frankfurt, Germany, the MX-5 Superlight version is described by the company as "a show car capturing the pure essence of the world's most popular roadster." Think of it as the MX-5 most of us would want to drive but very few would actually buy.

The stripped out, lightweight roadster comes with no windshield and a sportier chassis set up while we also noticed the absence of visible door handles and the bucket sport seats in the interior. The Japanese firm did not disclose any details on the changes over the standard version nor on what lies under the hood.

So, are there any chances that we'll see the MX-5 Superlight making it into production? For now, Mazda claims that the vehicle is just a show car, but we wouldn't be surprised at all if the automaker decides to produce the Superlight in a limited run in the very near future.

Mazda Says it Will Add Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Drivetrains to Lineup

Mazda Says it Will Add Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Drivetrains to Lineup

As the saying goes, if you can't beat them, you might as well join them. Following Mazda CEO Takashi Yamanouchi's 180 degree turn on the embracement of hybrid technologies that came at the New York Auto Show in April, the company's Executive Vice President Philip Spender announced new details on Mazda's future hybrid plans during the Japanese launch event of the 2010 Axela (Mazda3).

"We've started to talk a lot more about it lately, in part because everybody else is," Spender said. "Mazda is responding partly to new government incentives and emissions rules," he added.

Spender revealed that Mazda will not develop a standalone hybrid model but instead the firm will offer gasoline-electric drivetrains as an option on existing models in its portfolio with the first cars expected in the "20-teens".

The Mazda executive did not disclose details on which models would get a hybrid drivetrain option, but we gather that the Mazda3 and Mazda6 as well as the firm's SUV/Crossover models will be among the first in line. And how about Mazda's sportscars like the MX-5 / Miata roadster? Your guess is as good as ours, but feel free to state your thoughts in the comment section below.

Via: Autonews (Sub. Req.)

Mazda to Celebrate MX-5 / Miata 20th Anniversary at Le Mans

Mazda to Celebrate MX-5 / Miata 20th Anniversary at Le Mans

It's been 20 years since Mazda blew the covers off the MX-5 / Miata roadster at the Chicago Motor Show in February 1989 and to celebrate, Mazda's European arm is holding a special birthday party at the 24 Hours of Le Mans that takes place on 13 and 14 June. A total of 200 MX-5s from all over Europe will meet at the race track with Mazda promising to give owners and fans of the car a special treat. The package that Mazda has readied for MX-5 owners includes a place for their car, an anniversary polo shirt, a rally plate, dinner and breakfast and of course, the chance to experience the race live at a special Mazda Camp reserved for them bordering the circuit.

A "Best of Show" competition will also be held during the event with a special award going to the most beautiful MX-5. Those that wish to participate can contact their national MX-5 club or visit the Mazda France website www.mazda.fr for more detailed information on how to sign up for the event that costs €100 (about $140 US).

Stud or Schlub? MonoCraft's Retro Styled Mazda MX-5 Miata

Stud or Schlub? MonoCraft's Retro Styled Mazda MX-5 Miata

Even in its latest form, the Mazda MX-5 / Miata roadster has more retro-style charm than a pair of classic Rayban sunglasses, but if you're still not satisfied, you could always opt for an outfit in the likes of MonoCraft's MH1. The Japanese company offers a full makeover for the roadster with a new front fascia complete with uniquely styled hood, bumper and fenders. The result brings to mind several cars including the previous Lotus Elise and the Toyota MR-2. MonoCraft also overhauls the rear end that gains a new bumper, an integrated boot spoiler and a specific fascia with Lotus Elise-like tail lamps.

Customers can choose from a variety of alloy wheel designs while the company also offers numerous interior upgrades including a full leather treatment. Now, whether or not MonoCraft's proposal is worth the fuss (and the money), is something we'll leave for you to decide.