Mazda reveals new 2016 MX-5 Miata

Few cars summon the passions of enthusiasts quite like the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Now in its 25th year, the Miata still ranks as the gold standard of affordable, uncomplicated sports cars — even as the numbers of enthusiasts who buy the car have dropped in recent years. Today, Mazda revealed the fourth generation of the Miata live on the Internet, although we know a few details already about what's coming.

The Japanese automaker revealed a modern, more tailored look for the roadster, but withheld most other details, including engine statistics. Mazda has not changed the basic Miata formula — a four-cylinder engine powering the rear wheels of a small convertible. There may be an automatic, and perhaps even a coupe variant, but the Japanese automaker has wisely stuck to what works. How much power the Miata carries will be one of the big reveals aside from its shape; Mazda has always chosen suppleness of handling over sheer grunt, and will likely avoid turbocharging in favor of a more-efficient naturally breathing unit.

Mazda's had a long time to think about the next generation — the current Miata's chassis dates to 2005 — and the mock-up of the undercarriage it showed earlier this year reflects several engineering choices. Yes, there will be electric power steering — a choice that once meant dull feedback, but no longer does. Mazda has said the new Miata should weigh 200 lbs. less than the current model, and with an engine now firmly behind the front axle, the combination of lighter weight and better balance should only make the Miata's dynamics that much better.

The biggest unknown with the new Miata is less an engineering mystery than a question of personality. The Miata and the rotary used to define Mazda around the world; the "zoom-zoom" tagline is still its most well-known slogan, despite the fact that the majority of Mazda's sales now come from the Mazda3 compact and CX-5 SUV. Mazda vowed the new Miata keeps its driving spirit intact while meeting the company's more recent focus on fuel efficiency. We'll need more details to know if the new Miata hearkens back to the original and give the fans something to cheer, or tries to bring a new generation into the club.

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