Aussie MX-5 to weigh 1009kg: Mazda

The kerb weight of the all-new Mazda MX-5 has finally been announced for the Australian market.

Mazda said today that the ND-series MX-5 will weigh just 1009kg – only 69kg heavier than the original NA-series from 1989.

The numbers see the popular roadster's weight go full circle from the original, with the NB (1030kg) and NC series (1100kg) adding kilos through the generations.

The pared back design of the smaller new MX-5 draws on the smarter use of ultra-high tensile-strength steels and the use of lightweight materials (including aluminium and plastic) throughout the two-seater body. Mazda says the ND-series MX-5 has achieved "approximately 30 per cent of the weight reduction via chassis and powertrain refinement, 40 per cent due to structure innovation and the remaining 30 per cent thanks to the use of additional lightweight materials".

Mazda has also reduced the weight of overhanging parts by 4.2kg, lowering the yaw inertia moment, which helps improve handling.

When it arrives in mid-August the MX-5 will feature a 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine and six-speed manual transmission. Compared to the old model the engine is 17kg lighter and the transmission 7kg less. Mazda shaved 14kg from the cylinder block, cylinder head, crank, connecting rod and piston, 2kg from the removal of the oil cooler and 4kg from the exhaust and cooling systems.

The differential is an astounding 10kg lighter, while the suspension and body are slimmer to the tune of 13kg and almost 20kg respectively.

There's no official word on pricing of the new model, though motoring.com.au believes the entry model will start from under $40,000 (plus on-road costs).