SEMA 2016: Mazda reveals MX-5 Speedster and RF Kuro

Mazda has revealed the two concepts it plans to unveil at this month's Las Vegas modified car show.

Designed and engineered by the Japanese car-maker's Californian design studio and R&D hub, both cars are claimed to have been inspired by the Mazda's MX-5 Global Cup Racers.

The first and most exciting concept isn't completely new but based on the MX-5 Speedster Mazda unveiled last year at SEMA.

For 2016, both engineers and designers have worked together to shave yet another 45kg off the small Mazda's already lithe kerb weight.

It's not known how or where the savings have been made but it's thought banishing the old cut-down windscreen and use of new composites the Japanese car-maker is developing have bought about the savings.

Now weighing in at just 899kg, the stripped-out Speester should easily be the fastest road-going MX-5 created by the car-maker ever, if Mazda gives it the green light for production.

Even with the regular car’s 118kW/200Nm 2.0-litre engine we expect a 0-100km/h dash in less than 5.0 seconds and a blustery top speed of at least 250km/h.

The 2016 Speedster now weighs in at less than 899kg.

The next concept, called the MX-5 Kuro, is nowhere near as extreme and features luxuries like a roof, windows and a windscreen.

Based on the MX-5 RF, the concept comes painted in a menacing matte dark grey paintjob because “Kuro” in Japanese means “charcoal”.

Featuring a set of lightweight 17-inch RAYS alloy wheels, and with suspension lifted from the MX-5 Cup racer, it’s thought the Kuro has been created as a track-day weapon.

Inside, the Kuro also dumps its regular dash for the race car's multifunction display to help driver's keep track of how off the pace their lap times are.

It's hoped Mazda USA will reveal full details of both SEMA concepts later today.

Alas, it's highly unlikely either concept will ever be offered for sale, although the Japanese car-maker might offer some of the performance-enhancing parts featured on both cars as dealer-fit accessories in the near future.