Recent reports are suggesting that the next generation Mazda MX-5 will be lighter and smaller than the current model. Now, there are reports stating that the new model will achieve an almost unbelievable fuel economy figure of just 3.4 l/100km – compared to 8.1 l/100km for the current generation MX-5.
The massive gain in fuel economy is expected to come thanks to the next MX-5’s rumoured 1000kg kerb weight (only 60kg heavier than the original MX-5) and Mazda’s new SKY-G petrol engine.
Mazda says that enhanced thermal efficiency is one reason the new Sky-G direct injection petrol engine offers significantly improved fuel economy over the carmaker’s current 2.0 litre engine.
The Sky-G motor makes use of an all-new engine block, designed to reduce mechanical friction and produce an optimal air-fuel mix.
Mazda also claims the new Sky-Drive automatic transmission chips in as well and improves fuel economy by approximately five percent. But whether the low reported fuel figures are based on an automatic or manual variant of the new MX-5 is unclear.
With the demands of modern safety requirements the next MX-5 will probably be only slightly smaller than the current model, meaning that smart design and lightweight construction will be vital for the success of the next generation MX-5.
To prove it’s all possible Mazda’s MX-5 Superlight concept (pictured) revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show weighed in at just 995kg, thanks to numerous weight-saving techniques.
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