Mazda and Fiat to co-develop roadsters based on next-gen MX-5

Mazda and Fiat has jointly announced that both marques will collaborate in a joint venture for a new roadster. The new offerings will be based on the next generation MX-5 roadster, sharing its Front-engine, Rear-Wheel Drive layout (RWD).

In the project, both marques will set off to design two distinctively different roadsters, but will share the building-know-how in adoption of the RWD layout. Each model will also pack engines from their respective manufacturers. The two roadsters, however, is likely to share Mazda's production plant in Hiroshima, Japan.

Speaking on the collaboration, Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda's Representative Director and Chairman of the Board said, “Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction. It is especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognized as the best-selling roadster of all time".

Just thinking of the prospect of combining true-blue Italian styling, with the renowned driving dynamics of the MX-5 roadster. For any motoring enthusiast, the project is definitely one to look forward to. It is highly unlikely to see a concept anytime soon though, as the final agreement will only be signed during the second half of the year.