Mazda Reminds Us About Its Obsession With Weight Loss
Mazda is reminding us about its obsession with weight loss by bringing two MX-5 Miata concepts to the 2016 SEMA Show.
The Mazda MX-5 Speedster Evolution and MX-5 RF Kuro concepts made their debuts in Las Vegas, borrowing style and speed from the Mazda MX-5 Global Cup race car. The MX-5 Speedster was first introduced at last year’s SEMA Show, and for this year, the Japanese automaker’s design team has taken things to a whole new level with the MX-5 Speedster Evolution. Finished in White Ether paint, the concept sheds over 100 pounds compared to last year’s concept, making it approximately 350 lbs lighter than a stock MX-5 stock top and tipping the scales under 2,000 lbs.
FULL COVERAGE: 2016 SEMA Show
Joining the MX-5 Speedster Evolution is the MX-5 RF Kuro concept, which is based on the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Retractable Fastback model that is heading to dealerships early next year. The exterior features a semi-matte metallic concept color that has been developed in-house by Mazda called “Kuro,” which means “charcoal” in Japanese. On all four corners are 17×7.5-inch RAYS forged wheels, wrapped with 214/45/17 BF Goodrich Rival G-Force tires, while the adjustable suspension from the MX-5 Cup has also been bolted on.
According to Mazda, both concepts were conceived by Mazda Design Americas to showcase contrasting directions that create a “Mazda Premium” experience, while paying homage to the company’s performance heritage. Both were designed and built in-house in Irvine, California.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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"Somehow" made it lighter? They cut the windshield off and removed the top...