Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Cars
  3. News

Mazda will reveal a hardtop version of its new MX-5 Miata in New York

Miles Branman
By

2016-Mazda-MX-5-Miata-front-angle
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Image used with permission by copyright holder
Mazda has announced that it will be launching a new model at the New York auto show later this month, and rumors have it that we’ll meet the first production folding hard top version of the iconic MX-5 Miata.

Though Mazda has never built a permanent fixed roof version of its MX-5 (for production), the previous generation roadster broke into the power folding hardtop segment. The next iteration of that guise would appear to be the world premiere Mazda is hinting at in two weeks.

Recommended Videos

An invitation from the Japanese automaker reads, “help us blow the lid off at the NY Auto Show,” which can really only point to the Miata – the brand’s only convertible. It’s been about a year since the fourth generation MX-5 was revealed, which matches up with the typical introduction cycle for automakers (though most debut coupe first, then drop-top).

Related

In an interview with Autocar, Mazda mentioned that the new hardtop MX-5 would use a lighter and more compact folding roof than the NC generation. Still, the hardtop version will be a bit heftier than the ultra-light roadster’s 2,332 pound curb weight. Price-wise, expect a bump of about $2,000 over the entry-level car’s $24,915 starting figure.

Since the original Miata, owners have sought fixed-roof versions of the car to increase rigidity and cabin quietness. NA generation cars could use a single-piece hardtop in addition to, or to replace the folding soft-top, and since the NB generation that followed had similar dimensions, the same type of unit was available.

The decision to offer a power folding hardtop in the NC generation was criticized because of the extra 120 lbs the model gained over the standard soft top version, but ultimately the new spec sold well for buyers who cared less about all-out performance and more about driver comfort.

With Mazda’s effort to cut weight and increase performance on the latest MX-5 Miata, we can expect the hardtop version to be as close to the enthusiast’s heart as possible, but we’ll find out for sure on March 23rd.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Miles Branman
Miles Branman
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…
Persona 5 Royal gameplay livestream reveals reworked Mementos, new Palace
persona 5 royal gameplay livestream futaba

A gameplay livestream for Persona 5 Royal revealed lots of information on the new edition of the popular Japanese RPG Persona 5, which is set to launch in Japan on October 31.

The livestream started with the second full-length trailer for Persona 5 Royal, which showcased some of the new story elements and features. The trailer and the livestream contain spoilers for those who have not yet finished Persona 5.

Read more
Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more
Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Read more
Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs
Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Read more