2016 Mazda MX-5 weight revealed ahead of August launch

Mazda Australia today confirmed the fourth-generation MX-5 would tip the scales at 1009kg in its lightest form.

It will make it the second-most petite model in the Mazda MX-5’s 26-year history, weighing in 69kg heavier than the original NA series roadster, though undercutting the 1030kg second-generation NB and the comparatively porky 1100kg NC.

Mazda says approximately 40 per cent of the new MX-5’s circa-90kg weight reduction over its direct predecessor is due to structure innovation, 30 per cent to chassis and powertrain refinement, and the remaining 30 per cent thanks to the use of additional lightweight materials.

In base specification – equipped with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a six-speed manual transmission – the major areas of weight reduction include the engine (-17kg), transmission (-7kg), differential (-10kg), suspension (-13kg) and the white body (-20kg).

Mazda says the proportion of lightweight high-tensile steel and aluminium has risen from 58 per cent to 71 per cent, while the use of ultra-high-tensile still has almost doubled to 21 per cent.

Mazda Australia is yet to confirm the weight of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder variant, which will sit at the top of the local range. US data rates the smaller engine at 96kW and 150Nm and the larger unit at 116kW and 200Nm. Both will be available with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

Pricing is set to start below $40,000 for the entry 1.5-litre manual variant and range up to roughly $50,000 for the 2.0-litre auto.

Additional details will be revealed in the coming months as the MX-5’s local launch approaches.