Mazda MX-5 V (NE) photos

The fifth-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (internal chassis code NE) is engineered on an evolved rear-wheel-drive platform retaining the signature compact 90.9-inch wheelbase. Retaining its classic open-top two-seater roadster layout, the primary development directive is to keep curb weight strictly between 1,000 and 1,200 kg without relying on cost-prohibitive composite materials like carbon fiber, preserving affordability and pure Jinba Ittai dynamics.

Unlike the preceding ND generation, the NE is built upon a multi-energy architecture designed from the ground up to accommodate all-electric propulsion. Battery layout options include an underfloor flat battery pack or a T-shaped structural unit located behind the seats and within the central tunnel to safeguard a low center of gravity. The internal combustion powertrain features a new naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Skyactiv-Z four-cylinder engine with lambda:1 stoichiometric control producing roughly 181 hp and 205 Nm of torque, while an upcoming fully electric derivative will produce over 200 hp to maintain the targeted power-to-weight ratio.