In a world where vehicles keep getting heavier, larger, and increasingly automated, the Mazda Miata continues to drive its own course. As the beloved roadster nears its fifth generation, Mazda’s leadership has made it clear that the Miata isn’t changing to meet trends; it’s sticking to what made it great in the first place. And for longtime fans, that’s the best news imaginable.
Staying Light in a Heavier World
When asked what defines the Mazda Miata, Mazda CTO Ryuichi Umeshita didn’t hesitate: “Lightweight,” he said. It’s a philosophy that’s guided the model since 1989 and one the company refuses to abandon despite pressures to bulk up for power or luxury. For the upcoming fifth-generation Miata, Mazda is eyeing a curb weight of under 2,200 pounds and a length of under 157 inches. That’s even smaller and lighter than the current ND model, a rarity in today’s market.
Keeping the weight down means the Miata doesn’t need a big engine to be fun.
Power Isn’t the Point, But There’s Still Plenty
Despite sticking with naturally aspirated engines, Mazda isn’t ignoring performance. The next Miata will likely get a 2.5-liter Skyactiv Z engine, one that meets stricter emissions standards while maintaining responsive power delivery. This next-gen engine will use Mazda’s lean-burn technology but still deliver impressive fuel economy and driving character. According to Umeshita, the goal is to maintain the car’s engaging feel while making it cleaner and more efficient across global markets.
The cherry on top is that the manual transmission isn’t going anywhere. Mazda remains committed to offering a stick-shift Miata, preserving the tactile connection between driver and machine that has made the car an enthusiast favorite for decades.
Rejecting the Bloat
Mazda’s designers and engineers have long resisted calls—especially from the U.S.—to make the Miata bigger and more powerful. As design boss Masashi Nakayama put it, “Do you really want a Harley-Davidson?” Instead of chasing horsepower or luxury features, Mazda’s team chooses smaller, lighter, and more affordable parts when faced with design decisions.
That careful restraint is one reason the Miata remains so distinctive. It’s not trying to be everything for everyone. It’s a purist’s car in a world full of compromises.
Driven From the Top
CEO Masahiro Moro and CTO Ryuichi Umeshita both race Miatas in endurance events and still drive them regularly. That level of hands-on passion is rare, and it shows in the attention to detail that goes into every generation of cars.
The Miata might not be Mazda’s biggest seller, but it remains the company’s soul. As emissions laws tighten and electric vehicles take over, Mazda is preparing for what comes next, but they’re not giving up the gas-powered, manual Miata just yet.
For those who believe a car should be more than just transportation, the future of driving may be uncertain, but the Miata’s road ahead looks refreshingly familiar. Lightweight. Engaging. Joyful. Just the way it’s always been.
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