Is the new Mazda MX-5 NE primed for a debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2023?

The rotary revival from Mazda wasn’t quite what we expected but the Hiroshima-based carmaker still has quite the driving arsenal under its belt with the timeless Mazda MX-5. Based on the latest teaser from them, it appears that a new roadster-related concept based on the diminutive MX-5 will take centre stage at its stand in the Japanese Mobility Show, possibly indicating the design direction of the next generation.

While Mazda hasn't outright said it's the new MX-5, the fact that Mazda’s stand at the show will be an ode to one of its most loved models in keeping with the theme “love of cars” seems to be a strong hint that the concept will shape the new MX-5.

Based on the teaser image released, the concept resembles the Vision RX but on a smaller scale, or to put it better, a MX-5-sized Vision RX. To be honest, the concept looks identical to the scissor-door coupe concept Mazda unveiled last year, dubbed the ‘Vision Study Model.’ Even the taillights are identical, looking like two circles intersecting with the brand name in the middle and slim vertical light bars below.

The concept was shown in as part of a presentation on its electrification plans moving forward. You can catch it at the 34:55 mark in the video below.

While some might guess that it could very well be the new MX-5, we expect the current ND-generation to continue fighting the good fight for a few more years before being replaced. Therefore, the concept will likely tease the new MX-5's design in the coming years.

And if you’re not convinced on any electrification in the lightweight sportscar, the current ND-generation would be your last opportunity to for it. Mazda themselves have said that the next-generation MX-5 will feature electrification in some capacity, possibly indicating a petrol-electric hybrid.

Also Read: Mazda MX-5 ND orders stopped in Japan, major updates to be introduced in Q3 2023

Regardless, the MX-5 will continue to forge ahead as top executives have maintained “the sports car will continue to exist forever.”

Continuing with the theme of certainty, a heavily refreshed ND MX-5 could also be revealed at the show. It’ll feature a major overhaul in terms of exterior looks and interior design.

The MX-5’s development chief, Shigeki Saito, revealed at the 2023 Roadster Karuizawa Meeting in May 2023 that a new MX-5 is currently in development. “We are about to make the biggest product improvements on the ND (MX-5). We won’t change much on the design but when you see it, you’ll think it’s a new car,” he said.

That means the possibility of seeing two completely new MX-5s at the show.

Also Read: Current generation Mazda MX-5 ND to end in 2025, you're not going to like its hybrid replacement

The presentation that teased the concept included a statement by the carmaker that it intends for 25 percent of its line-up to be fully electric by 2030, with the rest featuring some level of electrification.

The Japan Mobility Show 2023 is open to the public from 28 October to 5 November 2023.