The reason for abandoning the 2.0-liter engine was new, stricter emissions standards.
Mazda has been producing the two-door MX-5 model since 1989, and the current fourth generation appeared in 2014 (in some markets — Roadster, Miata and MX-5 Miata). We previously reported that the model received updates for the current model year: first, a variant for the domestic market appeared, then a European version, and later the American roadster was also updated. Now there is information about a change in the engine range of the “old world” MX-5.
In the photo: the current Mazda MX-5 roadster (for the European market)
The Japanese brand is forced to abandon the 2.0-liter engine for its roadster sold in Europe due to stricter emissions regulations. This is reported by Motor1.com with reference to representatives of the company's offices and dealers in Italy, Croatia and Romania.
According to sources, Europeans will no longer be able to place an order for the new Mazda MX-5 roadster with a 2.0-liter engine, although some dealers still have such cars in stock. In addition, it is reported that you can still buy a version with this “filling” in the UK (which left the European Union at the beginning of 2020).
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactive-G engine, which produces 184 hp and a maximum torque of 205 Nm, is being retired in Europe. A six-speed manual transmission is offered in tandem with this engine. By the way, this is the only «filling» for the Mazda roadster in the States.
Now, on the «old world» market, the two-door can only be purchased with a junior engine: we are talking about a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine, the output of which is 132 hp (152 Nm). It also works in combination with a 6-speed manual transmission. It is known that the emission volume of cars with a base engine is 142 g/km, and for cars with a 2.0-liter engine — 153 g/km.
Pictured: Mazda MX-5 interior
According to the official Mazda website in Germany (one of the largest European markets), MX-5 with a more powerful motor is still on sale. Its price here starts at 37,790 euros (equivalent to approximately 3.63 million rubles at the current exchange rate), and for the starting version they ask for at least 33,190 euros (about 3.19 million rubles).
< p>Recall that the Japanese company is currently developing the next generation Mazda MX-5. It is assumed that the new product will be created based on the Iconic SP concept, which was presented last fall in Tokyo as part of the Japan Mobility Show. One of the main features of the show car is its hybrid technology: it is based on a two-section rotary piston engine mounted in the center of the car. The RPD rotates a generator, which generates electricity and stores it in a battery to power the electric motor. The stated output of this system is 370 hp. with a curb weight of 1450 kg.