Next Mazda MX-5 could be diesel and hybrid

The Mazda MX-5 is the Japanese interpretation of the British roadster: small, light, nimble and reliable (Japan added the last one.) Most of these characteristics contribute to decent fuel economy (20 mpg city/27 mpg highway), but the Japanese are overachievers and want more from the little MX-5. So now, the next generation due in 2012 will likely carry a hybrid or diesel version. "I would say the chance of a diesel or hybrid engine [for MX-5] is more than 50 per cent," Mazda MX-5 program manager Takao Kijima.

How can this be? The best part about the MX-5 is that it offers a fun drive with the top down (even if others can see you driving it.) Nothing would kill that more that the substantial extra weight of hybrid system, or the smell of an oil burner.

Kijima knows these concerns too, so he’s already come up with a very Lotus-like answer for the hybrid’s weight: add lightness. He says the new MX-5 will be ten percent lighter than the current generation and will be a similar weight to the first generation. Kijima says that there was a push from markets like the U.S. to make the car bigger and heavier, but he’s resisting (wise choice).

As for the sent of the diesel, just blame it on the dog riding shotgun.

So the 2012 MX-5 now has a real challenge ahead of it. It has to stay small, light and nimble, while seeking fuel economy, sustainability and "more balls".