Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata to get SKY-G power, 50+ mpg?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power-50-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power-50-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/2011-mazda-mx-5-miata-to-get-sky-g-power-50-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mazda MX-5 Miata Superlight Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Are big changes ahead for the Miata? As a blog that's gone on record as adoring the current iteration (and all previous - Ed.) of Mazda's quintessential sportscar, that notion is a bit worrisome. Still, it sounds as if the company is going in the right direction. According to Inside Line, the 2011 MX-5 Miata will shrink in size a bit with an expected curb weight of just 2,200 pounds. That low weight should pay big dynamic dividends as well as boost efficiency, but the big news on that front will be an all-new engine.

Powering the next-gen Miata will reportedly be either a 1.3-liter or 1.5-liter version of the four-cylinder SKY-G engine (G as in gasoline) that Mazda showed off earlier this year at the Tokyo Motor Show. With an expected power rating near 150 horsepower, the current model's power-to-weight ratio would remain intact (the 2009 model boasts 167 hp), and Mazda reportedly predicts the downsized mill will return in excess of 50 miles per gallon in the little sportscar. Consider our interest piqued.


Gallery: Mazda Superlight Concept

01-mazda-superlight-concept-press02-mazda-superlight-concept-press03-mazda-superlight-concept-press04-mazda-superlight-concept-press05-mazda-superlight-concept-press

[Source: Inside Line]

2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata to get SKY-G power, 50+ mpg? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Mazda Miata2011 Mazda MX-52011 Mazda MX-5 Miata2011MazdaMiata2011MazdaMx-52011MazdaMx-5Miatamazdamazda miata superlightMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 MiataMazda MX5mazda mx5 miataMazda SKYMazda SKY engineMazda SKY enginesmazda sky gMazdaMiataSuperlightMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx5MazdaMx5MiataMazdaSkyMazdaSkyEngineMazdaSkyEnginesMazdaSkyGMiatamx-5mx5Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Turbo rotary Mazda MX-5 begs to be flogged]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-turbo-rotary-mazda-mx-5-begs-to-be-flogged/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-turbo-rotary-mazda-mx-5-begs-to-be-flogged/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-turbo-rotary-mazda-mx-5-begs-to-be-flogged/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Turbo Rotary Mazda MX-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you get the impression things are all high gloss and dubs in Vegas, you wouldn't be far off. But walk around the SEMA compound long enough and you come across something cool that that speaks to the gearhead, track rat in each of us.

Unfortunately, we don't have a lot of details about this red NA Mazda MX-5, but we do know it's been worked over by Mike Burlas Designs from Rialto, California, and it has a turbocharged 13B rotary underhood. Further, it has been kitted out with an adjustable suspension, upgraded brakes and what appears to be a fiberglass (or Kevlar) blistered fender kit.

But the crowning jewel is the carbon fiber fastback roof which the company is selling in fiberglass form for $1,800. It's not quite as cool as the MX-5 coupe concept from way-back-when, but it's nice to see the Miata getting some S2000-style fixed roof love in Sin City.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Turbo Rotary Mazda MX5/Miata

SEMA 2009: Turbo rotary Mazda MX-5 begs to be flogged originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>13b13b rotary13bRotaryBurlas DesignsBurlasDesignsLas VegasLasVegasMazda MiataMazda MX-5mazda rotaryMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaRotaryMiataMX-5MX5rotary engineRotaryEngineSemaSema 2009Sema2009wankelThu, 05 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is still the drive of our childhood dreams]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/review-2009-mazda-mx-5-miata-is-still-the-drive-of-our-childhoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/review-2009-mazda-mx-5-miata-is-still-the-drive-of-our-childhoo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/review-2009-mazda-mx-5-miata-is-still-the-drive-of-our-childhoo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata - Click above for high-res image gallery

Remember back when you were a diapered enthusiast-to-be and you weren't allowed to venture beyond the end of your family's tree lawn? The sum total of your 'driving' experience was probably a Little Tikes Cozy Coupe. If you were like us, your toddler self was all big dreams, bustling feet and arms akimbo, twirling around those front caster wheels, savoring your first taste of automotive freedom.

Mazda created a timeless masterwork upon minting the very first MX-5 Miata back in 1989.
Small wonder, then, that Little Tikes' now 30-year-old bauble of rotation-molded plastic was last year's best-selling car - it's timeless. Combine classic styling, unburstable robustness, an inexpensive sticker price and the fact that it remains just quick enough for its target audience, and you've got a recipe for lasting success. The CC's whimsical, animated face; rounded, friendly styling; unfussed interior; nimble handling and general affordability has meant that despite a decidedly casual model update schedule, the folks at Little Tikes still have the whole fun-to-drive thing knocked. Sound like anyone else we know?

Oh, it may have taken them a decade longer to cotton on to the idea, but Mazda's designers eventually stumbled upon the same secret sauce as those wondrous toymakers from Hudson, Ohio. Perhaps inadvertently, they, too, created a timeless masterwork upon minting the very first MX-5 Miata back in 1989. All these years later, just like the Cozy Coupe, you can't help but smile a little when you see one. Just like the Cozy Coupe, you have to adopt the same mildly vulnerable, elbows-out-the-window driving position because of the cabin's pronounced narrowness. Just like the Cozy Coupe, both cars have more than their fair share of plastic in their interior. Just like the Cozy Coupe, road imperfections are transmitted directly through the modestly sized wheels into the driver's hands and back pocket - and in both cases, it's part of the fun. Most importantly, just like that Cozy Coupe of your youth, Mazda's minimalist masterwork will help you rediscover your inner enthusiast's childlike heart.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is still the drive of our childhood dreams

Review: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is still the drive of our childhood dreams originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mazda MX-52010MazdaMx-5FeaturedmazdaMazda MiataMazda MX-5MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MiataMX-5MX5reviewReviewedreviewsroadstersports carSportsCarFri, 02 Oct 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda Miata owners gather in Japan for 20th anniversary celebration]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mazda-miata-owners-gather-in-japan-for-20th-anniversary-celebrat/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mazda-miata-owners-gather-in-japan-for-20th-anniversary-celebrat/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mazda-miata-owners-gather-in-japan-for-20th-anniversary-celebrat/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mazda MX-5 Miata 20th Anniversary Meet - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda celebrated the 20th anniversary of its MX-5 Miata this year at the Chicago Auto Show by bringing out various concepts and special edition models to display on the show floor. But that handful of cars was nothing compared to the event put on by Mazda last weekend that brought out 2,600 owners and 1,600 cars to celebrate the best selling roadster of all time at the Miyoshi Proving Ground in western Japan.

The day's festivities included introductions for the various clubs, an MX-5 quiz, and a 20th anniversary car that all of the attendees could sign. Bringing the event to a close was a massive parade around the track that has to have broken some sort of record. You can read the brief press release after the jump or check out the high-res gallery courtesy of Mazda below.


Gallery: Mazda MX-5 20th Anniversary Meet


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda Miata owners gather in Japan for 20th anniversary celebration

Mazda Miata owners gather in Japan for 20th anniversary celebration originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MazdaMazda MiataMazda Miata 20th Anniversary MeetMazda MX-5Mazda MX-5 20th anniversary meetMazdaMiataMazdaMiata20thAnniversaryMeetMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-520thAnniversaryMeetMiataMX-5Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Grassroots Motorsports'</i> Tim Suddard picks ten future Japanese collector cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,

First generation Mazda Miata - Click above to see entire list of future Japanese Collector Cars

"Everybody wants to go to the dance, no one wants to stay and clean up." So says Robert De Niro's Sam in John Frankenheimer's spy thriller/car porno Ronin. We mention the line, because it's not only well written, but nicely sums up most people's attitudes towards classic, collector cars. Yes, we'd all love a Boss 302 Mustang or a Maserati Bora, but no one wants to pay the tens of thousands of dollars it takes to procure and maintain them. But what if in the future collector cars weren't limited to American muscle or exotic Europeans? What if relatively cheap and reliable Japanese cars came to be collectors items?

Regardless of the answer, that's the exact future that Tim Suddard, publisher of both Grassroots Motorsports and Classic Motorsports, is predicting. In fact, here's what he has to say about it:
Right now Japanese cars are generally overlooked by the collector car world, but we expect that to change. A generation that grew up on Hondas, Datsuns and Mazdas is coming of age where they're after the icons of their youth. Where previous enthusiasts paid big money for the Mopars, Chevelles and GTOs that they couldn't afford when teens, we expect the same happen soon with milestone Japanese cars.
Which, if what Suddard is saying is true, means that both demand and price should increase. Which is probably... bad. Click here to see the ten cars (with captions) that Suddard claims are going to be future classics, plus our own two cents on each selection. And of course, what do you think? Also - like what you see? If you're in the Southern California area, don't miss the 2009 Japanese Classics car show this weekend


Gallery: Tim Suddard's ten most collectable Japanese cars

1997-2001 Acura Integra Type R1990-2005 Acura NSX1970-1973 Datsun 240Z1967-1973 Datsun 5101985-1991 Honda CRX Si

Grassroots Motorsports' Tim Suddard picks ten future Japanese collector cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240Z510AcuraAcura IntegraAcura Integra Type RAcura NSXAcuraIntegraAcuraIntegraTypeRAcuraNsxAE86CollectorCollector CarsCollectorCarsCRX SiCrxSiDastun 240ZDastun240zDatsunDatsun 510Datsun510HondaHonda CRXHonda CRX SiHonda S600HondaCrxHondaCrxSiHondaS600IntegraIntegra Type RIntegraTypeRJapanJapaneseMazda MiataMazda RX-3Mazda RX-7MazdaMiataMazdaRx-3MazdaRx-7MiataNSXRX-3RX-7Tim SuddardTimSuddardToyotaToyota CorollaToyota Corolla GT-SToyotaCorollaToyotaCorollaGt-sWed, 30 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: The Smoking Tire launches, plays with Mazda enthusiasts in New York]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/video-the-smoking-tire-launches-plays-with-mazda-enthusiasts-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/video-the-smoking-tire-launches-plays-with-mazda-enthusiasts-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/video-the-smoking-tire-launches-plays-with-mazda-enthusiasts-i/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Smoking Tire's Matt Farah inspects a first generation Miata - Click above to view the video after the jump

Remember Garage 419? Good show, right? Buncha car guys talking about cars with occasional outbursts of hoonage -- quite the winning formula (full disclosure, they had us on as a guest). Sadly, Garage 419 went off the "air" a while ago. But despair not gearhead video fans. Host Matt Farah is back with a brand new show called The Smoking Tire and after watching the first episode, it looks to be everything you liked about Garage 419 minus all the Brandon and the Frog ads.

In the debut episode, Farah and crew head to the Newburgh, New York home of Orange County Choppers to a Mazda parking lot gathering and hassle interview Miata and 'Speed3 owners about their respective zoom-zoomy rides. Then Farah squeezes all 6'3", 245 pounds of himself into a 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata and takes it for a spin up Bear Mountain, explaining why he recommends the nimble roadster to every 16-year-old that asks what car to buy. Obviously, comparisons to Garage 419 are inevitable, but if anything, Farah seems more relaxed and personable than before. We even smiled during the commercial. Check out the first episode after the jump.

[Source: The Smoking Tire]

Continue reading VIDEO: The Smoking Tire launches, plays with Mazda enthusiasts in New York

VIDEO: The Smoking Tire launches, plays with Mazda enthusiasts in New York originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Garage 419Garage419Matt FarahMattFarahMazdaMazda MX-5Mazda Mx-5 MiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaSpeed3MiataMX-5 MiataMx-5MiataThe Smoking TireTheSmokingTireThu, 03 Sep 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[What Hath the Economy Wrought: Entry-level Ferrari Spider?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/what-hath-the-economy-wrought-entry-level-ferrari-spider/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/what-hath-the-economy-wrought-entry-level-ferrari-spider/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/what-hath-the-economy-wrought-entry-level-ferrari-spider/#commentsFiled under: ,



As the global economy shows signs of both recovering and getting worse, luxury and exotic automakers are hedging their bets more and more. Introducing cars like the Aston Martin One-77, Bugatti Sang Bleu and Bentley Muslanne made perfect sense -- in 1999. In today's unstable financial climate, you just can't be too careful. While most enthusiasts are salivating over the release of the new Ferrari 458 Italia with its auto-deforming front air intakes and 200+ mph top speed, the more rational among us are getting excited about the new low cost offerings from Europe like the Alfa Romeo MiTo, Fiat 500 and the just spotted baby Ferrari Spider (that's prancing horse speak for "roadster") pictured above.

Set to be named the El Duce, Maranello's newest rag top will compete with the likes of Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4 and Chevrol... hey wait a second -- that's not a Ferrari!! That's some Starbucks swillin' hoser's tarted up Mazda Miata!

Be honest... did he almost have you fooled into thinking this is an actual Ferrari? Us too! It's the attention to detail. Like the Prancing Horse emblem, the Ferrari badge and the Ferrari license plate frame. They don't just hand those out at half-priced day at Pick'n'Pull. Most convincing is the sign that states, "Ferrari Parking Only: All Others Will Be Towed." Because if it were actually, say, a Mazda Miata, it would have been towed already, right? Normally, only F355 owners go through the trouble of driving around with that particular sign in their trunk. And check out those Pininfarina designed mud flaps. Ferraritastic, no? How best to sum this one up? Ah, got it: Ten pounds of suck in a five pound bag. And you thought the BMW R8 is bad. Oh wait, it is! Thanks to Ryan in Seattle for snapping this photo and sending it in.

What Hath the Economy Wrought: Entry-level Ferrari Spider? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FerrariMazdaMazda MiataMazdaMiataMiataMon, 24 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2012 Mazda MX-5 could go lighter and smaller]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/rendered-speculation-2012-mazda-mx-5-could-go-lighter-and-small/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/rendered-speculation-2012-mazda-mx-5-could-go-lighter-and-small/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/18/rendered-speculation-2012-mazda-mx-5-could-go-lighter-and-small/#commentsFiled under: ,

Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Mazda MX-5 (or Miata) has shown remarkable resilience to the bloating trends of age. While other automakers tend to make new cars bigger and fatter with each successive generation, notwithstanding the optional retractable hardtop version, the Mazda roadster has remained relatively compact and light on its feet. But while the MX-5 Superlight concept due to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show takes the current Miata into ever lighter territory, reports suggest that the next-generation model could prove even lighter.

With a compact four-cylinder engine and lightweight chassis, the replacement for the current MX-5 is reportedly being prepared for its debut in 2012. What this would mean, however, for the fate of the reputed MX-2 - a speculated sub-Miata roadster - remains to be seen.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport]

Rendered Speculation: 2012 Mazda MX-5 could go lighter and smaller originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda miata2012 mazda mx-52012 mazda mx-5 miata2012 miata2012 mx-52012 mx-5 miata2012MazdaMiata2012MazdaMx-52012MazdaMx-5Miata2012Miata2012Mx-52012Mx-5Miatamazdamazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamazda mx5mazda mx5 miataMazdaMiataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx5MazdaMx5MiatamiataTue, 18 Aug 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Forza Motorsport 3 celebrates past and present of JDM in new screenshots]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/forza-motorsport-3-celebrates-past-and-present-of-jdm-in-new-scr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/forza-motorsport-3-celebrates-past-and-present-of-jdm-in-new-scr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/12/forza-motorsport-3-celebrates-past-and-present-of-jdm-in-new-scr/#commentsFiled under: ,

Forza Motorsport 3 Screenshot - click above image for high-res gallery

More and more folks are slowly but surely coming to the realization that old school Japanese metal is pretty cool. Stylish, too. For instance, have you ever noticed how much a Toyota Celica Supra looks like a Lamborghini Jarama? Or that a first generation Miata is a dead ringer for Lotus Elan? Before you start screaming about the Japanese being styling thieves, let's remember two things.

As Woody Allen has said, "Be original, don't steal. But if you do, steal from the best." The other is that if you counted up all the running Jaramas and Elans on the world, you'd have a very, very small number. So if not for the Japanese, these shapes would be lost. Then, of course, you have cars like the Datsun 510, a design that looks even sharper now than it did forty years ago -- especially the sedan. And then there's the 240Z, a true icon.

In recognition of this, the brains behind Forza Motorsport 3 are including a bunch of vintage JDM rides in their upcoming XBox racing game that's on schedule to be released this October. Including some racers like the 1997 Nissan Motorsports R390, a homologated Le Mans car, meaning two street examples exist, and they can hit 60 mph in 3.3. seconds, run the quarter in 11 seconds flat and top out at 220 mph. While we think 99% of the cars Forza's including are brillinat, we don't quite get the Scion xD. Thanks for the tip, Brandon!


Gallery: Forza 3 Japanese Screen Shots


[Source: Forza Motorsport]

Forza Motorsport 3 celebrates past and present of JDM in new screenshots originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Celica SupraCelicaSupraDatsunDatsun 510Datsun510ForzaForza 3Forza MotorsportForza Motorsport 3Forza3ForzaMotorsportForzaMotorsport3Lamborghini JaramaLamborghiniJaramaLotusLotus ElanLotusElanMazda MiataMazdaMiataMiataNissanNissan R390NissanR390R390ScionScion xDScionXdToyota Celica SupraToyotaCelicaSupraWed, 12 Aug 2009 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Super(light) Hero - Mazda bringing bantamweight MX-5 Miata concept to Frankfurt <b>[UPDATED]</b>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/super-light-hero-mazda-bringing-bantamweight-mx-5-miata-conce/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/super-light-hero-mazda-bringing-bantamweight-mx-5-miata-conce/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/super-light-hero-mazda-bringing-bantamweight-mx-5-miata-conce/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mazda MX-5 Miata Superlight Concept -- Click above for high-res image gallery

A few days ago, Mazda announced a special-edition MX-5 Miata in Crystal White Pearl Mica to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the car that restored the roadster. They should have been making a splash about this car instead, a concept MX-5 Superlight speedster that is due in Frankfurt next month.

Mazda has only let a couple of beans spill about the car: it's extra light weight improves handling, fuel economy, and CO2 emissions. That's all we know. But we can guess that a Miata that's missing a windshield, door handles, roof, and any interior comforts beyond seats would be a racer's dream.

Oh, but do notice that while there's no radio or speakers, the car does include a curved center console that supports the increasingly common iPhone. We'll be at Frankfurt next month making a beeline for this one. In the meantime, you can check out the images below or check out the official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Mazda Superlight Concept

01-mazda-superlight-concept-press02-mazda-superlight-concept-press03-mazda-superlight-concept-press04-mazda-superlight-concept-press05-mazda-superlight-concept-press

[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Super(light) Hero - Mazda bringing bantamweight MX-5 Miata concept to Frankfurt [UPDATED]

Super(light) Hero - Mazda bringing bantamweight MX-5 Miata concept to Frankfurt [UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept carConceptCarconvertiblefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowmazdamazda miatamazda miata superlightmazda mx-5mazda mx-5 superlightMazdaMiataMazdaMiataSuperlightMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5Superlightmiatamx-5roadsterWed, 05 Aug 2009 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda releases 20th Anniversary Edition Miata for JDM faithful]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/mazda-releases-20th-anniversary-edition-miata-for-jdm-faithful/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/mazda-releases-20th-anniversary-edition-miata-for-jdm-faithful/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/mazda-releases-20th-anniversary-edition-miata-for-jdm-faithful/#commentsFiled under: , ,


20th Anniversary Mazda Miata -- Click above for high-res image

Japan gets to celebrate the 20th birthday of the Mazda MX-5/Miata with a special edition for JDM buyers only. The Crystal White Pearl Mica roadster comes in two varieties: an RS soft-top with a 6-speed manual, and a VS hardtop with a 6-speed automatic. Both cars get red-and-black heated Recaros, extra cabin padding, clear front fog lights, a strut tower brace, and (of course) the requisite splash of 20th anniversary badging. You can read about it in the press release after the jump, and check out a high-res photo by clicking the image above.


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda releases 20th Anniversary Edition Miata for JDM faithful

Mazda releases 20th Anniversary Edition Miata for JDM faithful originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convertiblejapanjdmmazdamazda miatamazda mx-5MazdaMiataMazdaMx-5miatamx-5roadsterspecial editionSpecialEditionFri, 31 Jul 2009 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[New automaker V-Vehicle Co. sets up shop in idled Louisiana GM plant, hires Miata designer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/new-automaker-v-vehicle-co-sets-up-shop-in-idled-louisiana-gm-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/new-automaker-v-vehicle-co-sets-up-shop-in-idled-louisiana-gm-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/new-automaker-v-vehicle-co-sets-up-shop-in-idled-louisiana-gm-p/#commentsFiled under:



Wither natural gas? T. Boone Pickens was last heard strongly supporting using the abundant North American fossil fuel as a means of moving the U.S. away from foreign oil. Today, though, the Texas oil man (and almost wind man) was revealed as an investor in a new automotive company called V-Vehicle Co. Based in San Diego, VVC has announced that it will move into an ex-GM plant in Monroe, Louisiana that has been idle since 2007 to build "environmentally friendly" vehicles.

About all we know of the vehicles is the teaser image above and that the company says it will be a "fuel-efficient car for the U.S. market," but we can guess at the style because former Mazda design chief Tom Matano, the man behind the MX-5 Miata, has been hired as VVC's design director. Matano said that more details on the car would be released later.

As we mentioned earlier, the state hopes that the plant will create about 1,400 new jobs with an average salary of $40,000. Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal was at the announcement ceremony today and says that the state offered VVC an incentive package worth $67 million, and local governments will put up a further $15 million. Thanks again to Mart for the tip!

[Sources: CNBC, Automotive News - sub. req'd]

New automaker V-Vehicle Co. sets up shop in idled Louisiana GM plant, hires Miata designer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mazda MX-5's 20th Anniversary at LeMans - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's hard to believe it's been two decades since Mazda first showed the world how to build a classic British sports car right. The roadster known as the Miata and MX-5 at different times and places around the world is 20 years old and to celebrate, Mazda has invited 200 examples and their owners from across Europe to a party in France next month at the 24 Hours of LeMans.

Over the course of two decades and three generations, Mazda has sold over 850,000 MX-5s and it remains one of the most entertaining roadsters available. While it's never been the most powerful sports car and some dismiss it as a secretary's chosen chariot, the compact, lightweight roadster has won over even the most insecure alpha males with taut handling, a balanced drivetrain and one of the simplest convertible mechanisms known to man.

European MX-5 owners who want to participate in the party should contact their national MX-5 club or Mazda France. The 200 attendees will watch the race from the Mazda camp alongside the circuit and a best in show will be awarded, along with plenty of goodies.


Gallery: Mazda MX-5 20th Anniversary Le Mans

Continue reading Mazda MX-5 to celebrate 20th birthday at Le Mans

Mazda MX-5 to celebrate 20th birthday at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>le mansLeMansmazda miatamazda miata 20 aniversariomazda mx-5mazda mx-5 20th anniversarymazda mx-5 miatamazda mx5mazda mx5 miataMazdaMiataMazdaMiata20AniversarioMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-520thAnniversaryMazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx5MazdaMx5Miatamiatamiata 20th anniversarymiata birthdayMiata20thAnniversaryMiataBirthdayWed, 27 May 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Shanghai 2009: Guangzhou Honda Linian roadster concept is messing with our S2000-loving heads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-guangzhou-honda-linian-roadster-concept-is-messin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-guangzhou-honda-linian-roadster-concept-is-messin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/shanghai-2009-guangzhou-honda-linian-roadster-concept-is-messin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Guangzhou Honda Linian roadster concept - Click on the image above for a gallery

Guangzhou Honda surprised everyone at the Shanghai show with this tidy little roadster, its second Linian concept in as many years. While the 2008 Beijing show concept was a more pedestrian five-door, this two-seat droptop has us wishing for a proper S2000 successor.

Oh, one can quibble over some of the design details (oversized grille element, the showcar-only airplane yoke-style steering wheel, etc.), but fundamentally this is an interesting package.

Sadly, according to our compatriots at Autoblog Simplified Chinese, Honda's domestic partner was mum on specifics, including driveline configuration, powerplant, and so on. That said, the shape does look quite production friendly. Add in a stronger windshield header, some larger mirrors, and do away with that Knight Rider steering wheel, and the rest seems plausible enough.

Rest assured, we are angling for more information on this car as we speak, but for now, enjoy the possibilities... and the gallery below.


Gallery: guangben linian coupe


Photos copyright (C) 2009 IceBin / Weblogs, Inc
[Source: Autoblog Simplified Chinese]

Shanghai 2009: Guangzhou Honda Linian roadster concept is messing with our S2000-loving heads originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoShanghaiconcept carConceptCarGuangzhouguangzhou HondaGuangzhouHondaHondaMiataRoadsterS200ShanghaiShanghai 2009Shanghai Auto ShowShanghai Motor ShowShanghai2009ShanghaiAutoShowShanghaiMotorShowTue, 21 Apr 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Mazda Miata to be lighter; get smaller engines and electric power steering?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/next-mazda-miata-to-be-lighter-get-smaller-engines-and-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/next-mazda-miata-to-be-lighter-get-smaller-engines-and-electric/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/next-mazda-miata-to-be-lighter-get-smaller-engines-and-electric/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of 20 years of the Mazda Miata/MX-5

Low weight and greater efficiency might not be the sexiest of selling points for a sports car unless you're a devotee of Lotus founder Colin Chapman's "add lightness" philosophy. Thankfully for those less-is-more enthusiasts, however, Mazda has steadily adhered to that formula with its MX-5 Miata - and now, word from the crew at GoAuto is that company engineers are working even harder to adhere to that design philosophy, with thoughts of smaller, force-fed engines and lighter curb weights dominating discussions for the next iteration of the iconic roadster.

There have long been rumors of a rotary-powered MX-5, but that's probably not in the cards. A modern take on the RX-7 is supposedly being worked up to take a new version of Felix Wankel's whirling dervish of an engine zipping into the future, with the MX-5 getting a newly developed line of four cylinders with direct injection and forced induction (finally!). A heavy-breathing Miata, packing the muscle of a MazdaSpeed3, for instance, might move the neo-MGB into a new realm at the top of its range.

Three words that tend to generate a half-frown on enthusiasts faces are being thrown about in the same sentence as the new Miata: "Electric power steering." We can see the push for the greater energy efficiency that EPS offers, but hopefully Mazda can make the Miata's helm joyously alive instead of Toyota Corolla-style numbness, all shot up with Novocaine (as most such systems tend to be).

Chassis details are also in the realm of conjecture at this point, but with words like "lighter" being shoved at us, we expect some significant re-engineering going on under the skin. That skin, by the way, will likely be more expressive than the rather safe MX-5 we have now, with Mazda's design chief Laurens van den Acker on record as saying the plan is for the car to "be more dramatic and give it some balls."


Gallery: Chicago 2009: Twenty Years of the Mazda Miata


[Source: GoAuto]

Next Mazda Miata to be lighter; get smaller engines and electric power steering? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda miata2012 mazda mx-52012 mazda mx52012 mazda mx5 miata2012MazdaMiata2012MazdaMx-52012MazdaMx52012MazdaMx5Miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatamazda mx5mazda mx5 miataMazdaMx-5MazdaMx-5MiataMazdaMx5MazdaMx5MiataMiataMX-5MX5Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago 2009: 20 years of the Mazda Miata/MX-5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/11/chicago-2009-20-years-of-the-mazda-miata-mx-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/11/chicago-2009-20-years-of-the-mazda-miata-mx-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/11/chicago-2009-20-years-of-the-mazda-miata-mx-5/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of 20 years of the Mazda Miata/MX-5

Twenty years ago, Mazda took the wraps off the first generation Miata/MX-5 in Chicago. Over the next two decades the lightweight roadster solidified its place in the enthusiast hierarchy and evolved with larger engines, more gears and extra amenities. Amazingly, it never lost its edge.

Mazda wanted to commemorate the Miata's milestone at this year's Chicago Auto Show, but rather than trot out a 20th Anniversary Edition with a few badges and a custom color, Mazda dusted off a handful of concepts, one-offs and notable MX-5s that defined the roadster and help create the Cult of Miata that a few Autoblog staffers continue to worship at to this day.

Check the gallery below for some of our favorite models, including a hardtop coupe concept that resulted in a JDM-only fixed-roof Miata and the Mono-Posto Roadster that had us seriously contemplating a late-night attack on our NA with a sawzall and some bondo.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Twenty Years of the Mazda Miata


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2009: 20 years of the Mazda Miata/MX-5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2009chicago auto showChicago2009ChicagoAutoShowmazdamiatamx-5Wed, 11 Feb 2009 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago Preview: 2009 Mazda MX-5 will say hey to USA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/chicago-preview-2009-mazda-mx-5-will-say-hey-to-usa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/chicago-preview-2009-mazda-mx-5-will-say-hey-to-usa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/chicago-preview-2009-mazda-mx-5-will-say-hey-to-usa/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Mazda MX-5 (JDM)

With over 800,000 copies sold during its 20-year lifespan, the Mazda MX-5 is the king of all roadsters. When the miniature Mazda hit the scene in 1989 as the Miata, Mazda gave it impeccable balance and precision. In the interim, the MX-5 has continued to evolve, and Mazda is looking to make even more magic for 2009. The new roadster will receive more horsepower, better fuel economy, and an updated aesthetics. The lightweight MX-5 is more about driving characteristics than outright power, so Mazda only increased output from the 2.0L engine from 166 to 168 hp. While the extra two ponies isn't going to set the track on fire, Mazda promises an improvement over the 2008 model's 22/27 fuel economy. Mazda also tweaked the MX-5's already sweet suspension for even tighter handling characteristics and made minor changes to the front and rear fascias. The 2009 MX-5 will also receive updates to the interior, colors, and available packages, and will debut in North American-spec at the Chicago Auto Show. Hit the jump to read Mazda's press release.

Gallery: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Roadster


Gallery: 2009 Mazda MX-5 LIVE

Continue reading Chicago Preview: 2009 Mazda MX-5 will say hey to USA

Chicago Preview: 2009 Mazda MX-5 will say hey to USA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazda mx-5MazdaMx-5miataroadsterzoom zoomZoomZoomFri, 30 Jan 2009 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Roadster goes on sale in Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/refreshed-mazda-mx-5-roadster-goes-on-sale-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/refreshed-mazda-mx-5-roadster-goes-on-sale-in-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/refreshed-mazda-mx-5-roadster-goes-on-sale-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2009 Mazda MX-5 Roadster

What Mazda has called a "refresh" is actually a seriously thorough tweaking of the MX-5's mechanics and aesthetics. Outside the rag top, known as the Roadster in Japan where it's just gone on sale, gets a smaller version of the smile we've seen on the Mazda3, new alloy wheels, a stronger character line and three new colors. Inside it gets new gauges, more supportive seats and a new MX-5-specific BOSE system. And underneath the hood, the engine gets a higher redline, the automatic transmission gets a couple of new modes, and manual gearbox just gets more refined and the front end has been lowered. And those changes represent just the tips of many icebergs. One thing we can all be thankful Mazda hasn't changed about the MX-5 is its Jinba Ittai. That's Japanese for "rider and horse as one." Who knew? Follow the jump for the exhaustive press release and check out the high-res gallery of Mazda's new Roadster below.

Gallery: 2009 Mazda MX-5 Roadster

Continue reading Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Roadster goes on sale in Japan

Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Roadster goes on sale in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the Mazda MX-5

Many of you (and some of us) don't think the current MX-5 went far enough in distancing itself from its cutesy predecessor, but design director Lauren Van den Acker wants to change that for 2012 and give the iconic convertible "more balls" in the process. If you're worried that the amazing handling characteristics of the MX-5 could be in danger, Van den Acker insists that the razor-sharp roadster will keep its core character. Stricter CAFE standards and customers demanding more mpg means that the next MX-5 will also be lighter and more efficient than the current model.

With the next MX-5 still a few years out, no design has been given the green light, but Mazda designers think the more dynamic designs that were shot down for the current-gen car would be a good place to start. A newer, ballsier, more radical MX-5 sounds good to us, as long as the changes don't mess with the cut on a dime handling that we've come to love.

Gallery: Autoblog Garage: 2008 Mazda MX-5 Hardtop


[Source: Auto Car]

Mazda: Next MX-5 will be "radical" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mazda MX-5MazdaMx-5miatamx-5 redesignMx-5RedesignredesignroadsterTue, 26 Aug 2008 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[EU patent office leaks 2009 Mazda MX-5 facelift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/eu-patent-office-leaks-2009-mazda-mx-5-facelift/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/eu-patent-office-leaks-2009-mazda-mx-5-facelift/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/13/eu-patent-office-leaks-2009-mazda-mx-5-facelift/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to view more renderings of the 2009 Mazda MX-5

Automakers go to great lengths to keep their upcoming products secret, but sometimes leaks are out of their control. Case in point, the recent leak of the upcoming redesign of the Mazda3 and now a facelift for the Mazda MX-5/Miata. With the roadster's full replacement reportedly delayed until 2012, Mazda is apparently going to give the current model a mid-cycle refresh with some more aggressive styling tweaks.

The leaked image, which Mazda apparently filed with the European Union Office of Harmonization for the Internal Market (OHIM), shows a restyled front end and that's it. The new mesh grille borrows from the Mazdaspeed3, the headlights grow a more aggressive slant, the foglights are restyled into eye-shaped surrounds, and the turning indicators are moved to behind the flared wheel arches. Other changes to the car's design may be in store as well, however the images, which you can view in the gallery below, show only the front end. Sources suggest the revised MX-5 may hit the market later this year or early the next, with a possible unveiling at the Paris Motor Show this fall.

Gallery: 2009 Mazda MX-5 patent renderings


[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

EU patent office leaks 2009 Mazda MX-5 facelift originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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