Mazda MX-5 Redux

2009 Mazda MX-5

But no more, according to AutoCar, who claim that Mazda program manager Takao Kijima insisted the next-gen vehicle weight less than 2,200 pounds. Today's MX-5 weighs nearly 2,500 pounds, while the original Miata tipped the scales at around 2,100 pounds.

AutoCar reports that the MX-5 will retain a front engine/rear-drive architecture, and will also stick with steel construction to keep the vehicle affordable. Another goal of the program is reduced fuel consumption and emissions, which will be made possible by downsized engines and possibly an extremely efficient turbocharged engine of around 1.4 liters.

Mazda intends to slash curb weights from its entire lineup by at least 10 percent by model year 2011.--Colin Mathews