New MX-5 fast facts

Mazda took all that there was to love about the classic roadster and, in 1989, gave the world its first MX-5.

Since then more than 940,000 examples of the much-loved two-seater have been sold across the globe through three generations, including more than 12,000 in Australia.

Now, as the latest MX-5 is unveiled to an enthusiastic ensemble of enthusiasts and motoring scribes, motoring.com.au takes a look at what makes the ND-series MX-5 such an important car.

It's the smallest MX-5 ever
It mightn't look it but the numbers prove the Mk4 MX-5 is in fact smaller than the original NA-series from 1989.

Measuring just 3915mm from bumper to bumper, the new MX-5 is a full 105mm shorter than the current NC-series MX-5 and 35mm shorter than the original!

But at 1730mm across the gunnels, it's 55mm wider than the first MX-5 and 10mm wider than the outgoing model, although no wheel track dimensions have been announced.

The new MX-5 is also 20mm lower (1235mm) than its predecessor, as well as 15mm shorter in wheelbase (now 2315mm), but is 50mm longer than the original between its axles.

Given Australia's outgoing NC-series MX-5 Roadster Coupe manual weighs 1167kg, the entry-level ND-series MX-5 soft-top could tip the scales at under 1070kg – 90kg heavier than the 1989 MX-5 (980kg) despite the addition of more safety and convenience features.

Word is the new 'Miata' will be offered with a choice of 1.5- and 2.0-litre four-cylinder power, which, in conjunction with the weight savings on offer, will make it one of the fastest MX-5s offered since the turbocharged SE and SP variants.

An all-new platform – this time the first rear-drive application of Mazda's latest SKYACTIV body – is a significant investment for any car company, and it could also underpin other models including the long-rumoured 2017 RX-7.

The new MX-5 chassis carries revised suspension and, for the first time in an MX-5, electric power steering.

They said the design team took Mazda's KODO Spirit of Motion design language to extreme lengths in its first application on a convertible, adding that the new look will inspire many new models to come.

Currently the NC Series II retails from $47,280 (plus ORCs) and extend well into the early $50K bracket once options (like an automatic transmission) are added.

The good news is that the ND-series will likely start from less than $40,000, Mazda saying the soft-top, smaller engine and standard 16-inch alloy wheels will reduce the car's base price significantly.

Higher-grade materials and more technology (most of it directly from the Mazda3) will make the interior feel more premium, while remaining closely in tune with the minimalist ethos of the original.

As well, the driving position is said to be as ideal as they could get it, the centre of the seat and the steering wheel hub in perfect alignment and the pedal box offset by the smallest margin allowed.

In that sense, the new MX-5 will not disappoint and will, depending on model grade, arrive with all of Mazda's MZD Connect infotainment technologies, including a seven-inch colour touch-screen with Bluetooth connectivity and sat-nav, speakers in the head restraints and new fuel-saving tech like idle-stop – plus LED lights all round.

Previous models have been a little cosy for the giants among us, but Mazda says it has recognised this issue and sought to be more accommodating. It's great news for taller buyers and is even more surprising when you consider the ND-series is 20mm lower than the model it replaces.

Speaking to a couple of insiders, motoring.com.au understands that in addition to the folding soft-top offered from launch, the new MX-5 will become available with a folding metal hard-top come 2016. Like the NA- and NB-series, it could also be offered with a coupe-like bolt-on hard-top option.

Expect more details to be announced at next month's Paris motor show, will full specifications to follow at next year's global launch. The fourth-generation MX-5 will go on sale in Australia in the second half of 2015.