Mazda will also reveal the newly developed SKYACTIV-Chassis that will be used for the upcoming next-generation MX-5. The engine and chassis are exhibited together, and it will be the first time SKYACTIV technology has been displayed in front mid-ship engine rear-wheel drive layout. While the next MX-5 will feature the most compact configuration yet, the engine will be located more centrally and the center of gravity lowered. Also, while the upcoming model will feature outstanding rigidity and crashworthiness, Mazda is aiming to reduce the overall weight by more than 100 kilograms.

Mazda's Chairman of the Board, Takashi Yamanouchi said, "The original concept behind the MX-5 was so simple; to offer the pure joy of a lightweight sport car that moves precisely as the driver intends. While responding to increasing safety and environmental requirements, over the 25 years since its launch we have had to continually reinvent the MX-5—far beyond simple evolution—in order to stay true to that original ideal. The history of the MX-5 is one of changing everything in order to stay the same. A history of innovating, in order to preserve."

THE ALUMINIUM and steel platform that will underpin the next-generation MX-5 due on sale in Australia next year could sit underneath more rear-drive Mazda models, the platform’s architect says.
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However, Moro-san refused to be drawn on whether the platform also could be used to create a successor to the rotary-engined, rear-drive RX-8, saying only that the car-maker was still working on its plans for the unique powerplant.