Mazda MX-5 Spyder Concept: SEMA Photo Gallery
Mazda rolled out a Spyder version of its iconic MX-5 Miata at SEMA, and while it’s clear that this is only a concept, Mazda says some elements may be used in future production cars.
The idea behind this Spyder is to turn a Miata into a lightweight racer that you can drive to the track on a sustainable fuel.
In the front, you immediately notice the Mazda “smile” is a little different. A black bar across the top of the grille disrupts the regular “smiley” face you get on the production version. Two aero humps adorn the rear of the car, nearly identical to the Porsche Boxster Spyder.
Inside, it’s tight. Really tight. Senior Editor Eric Rossi, who’s 5-foot-7, climbed in, and his hair rubbed the roof. Despite the small interior, there were several nice touches, like the white trim on the dashboard, custom floormats and unique seats and door inserts.
One thing you’d definitely notice from the driver’s seat is how little you can see out the back. With the roofline the way it is and the raised area behind the seats, you’d best have a good idea of what’s going on around you via the car’s side mirrors.
On the engine front, Mazda says this concept runs on isobutanol, which is like ethanol in that it’s made from natural material as well. Here’s how Mazda puts it:
“Although similar to how ethanol is produced from agricultural feedstock, isobutanol does not compromise vehicle performance for the sake of fuel economy,” the press release says, “and can be added to the current fuel distribution infrastructure without requiring modifications in blending facilities, storage tanks and retail station pumps. Isobutanol's compatibility with existing technology and infrastructures is a significant step toward meeting the demand in renewable fuels for transportation.”
The Spyder gets 17-inch gunmetal metallic alloy wheels and a great-looking paint job called Stratosphere White, which is stunning on the show floor. Check out the pictures below.
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Yawn, and I have an MX-5 in my fleet... Build another MazdaSpeed version - that would be an exciting way to end NC's lifecycle...
Most roadsters aren't driven enough to justify green technology. If MX-5 buyers cared, then Mazda would re-gear the transmission to get better than 28mpg on highway, but they don't...
The front end says "I'm gonna eat you" just add a few teeth.
Bring back the yellow color on the vehicle in the background. Get back to the basic concept with a nice sports car at a decent price. And dump those rock hard seats in the current line.
Love the throwback Mazda logo on the nose. Top is OK, looks a little unfinished from the back, but I like the idea. As a long time Mazda owner, I'm happy to see they're still making interesting cars even as Toyota and Honda have become so boring.
Clearly not built for big or tall people! Still a nice looking car though.