Skip to main content

2013 Detroit Auto Show: Mazda and Alfa Romeo team up to build roadster, make us all happy to be alive

Alfa Romeo C8 Spider
Image used with permission by copyright holder

We have a few automotive dreams. We’d like to see more true hybrid sports cars. We’d like to see some accessible off-roaders sold Stateside. We’d also love to see the return of the Alfa Romeo Spider.

To our shock and amazement, one of those dreams is actually going to be realized. Mazda and Alfa today announced that will team up to build an all-new open-top two-seater sports car.

Once you’ve stopped giggling with glee, we’ll give you the facts.

The new drop-top sports car will be based on the next generation Mazda MX-5. While each variant will have its own engines and styling, Mazda will build both versions in its Hiroshima plant in Japan for the global market. Both cars will be front-engined, rear-wheel drive, and undoubtedly offered exclusively with a manual transmission.

With this new agreement, Alfa aims to re-envision its popular Spider model. And Mazda simply aims to reinvigorate its MX-5.

The Mazda and Alfa say production won’t begin until 2015, so we’ve got time to daydream. But what a daydream it is. It’s almost painful to fathom how fantastic a Mazda-built 2016 Alfa Romeo Spider will be; the majesty of an Alfa convertible assembled by the fastidious Japanese. What could go wrong?

The two automakers have kept any further details secret like performance, pricing, or in which markets the two vehicles will be sold. As soon as we know more, however, you can be sure we’ll quick to bring them to you.

Nick Jaynes
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…
Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?
Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Read more
The 6 best remote car starters in 2024
Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Read more
The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024
The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.

Read more