Front
Rear
I've always been skeptical of these Japanese Magazine spy shots, but this definately looks like a Miata. From what I've seen from spy shots and this picture, plenty of similar traits. So I honestly think this will resemble the real thing.
Regarding the front, it reminds me of the early S2000s with fog lamps. I feel the front grill is a bit too high on the car. Perhaps if the front grill was smaller, lower, and the front end looked a bit more aggressive, it would look pretty good. If the car was in a different color, I think it would look alot better.
Looks like Mazda is going with a 5 lug configuration this generation. I really don't like that because one of the best features on current Miatas is the interchangeability of most parts. Regarding the style, I think they're alright. The size appears to be perfect, but the style leaves a little to be desired. I personally would not purchase an aftermarket rim of that style. They look like 17s, and will likely be pretty heavy.
The rear looks alright. I believe the tail lights would look better on a different colored car (Silver/black), rather than Orange. I've noticed the dual tipped exhaust gives it a bit more aggressive look.
The front and wheels look okay, while the rear appears to have the best improvement. I think with a different color, the car would look alot better. I'll have to wait until I can see bigger, more detailed pictures, as well as the car in a different color.
As far as performance goes, its rumored to weigh between 2400-2500lbs. According to these scans, it weighs 1100kbs, about 2425lbs. Rumor has it, Mazda is going to have engine options, including the 2.3L I4 they use in the Mazda3 which puts out 160hp. Nothing yet on a Mazdaspeed version. I expect performance to be slightly higher than the current Miatas. Very close, but not quite as fast as the current Mazdaspeed version.
So as of now, I think the car would look better in a different color, but until I see it, I really can't decide. Until I see better/more pictures, I still think the Mazdaspeed Miata and the 2003 SE Blue look the best.
As far as new cars go, I really like the Saturn Sky, and the VW Concept R. If they're all within the same price range, with similar performance, its going to be a tough time for me to decide which to buy. As a Miata owner, I'm actually leaning towards the Sky/Concept R over the 3rd Gen Miata. I just didn't get that WOW factor with the new Miata than I did with the Sky/Concept R.
EDIT:
I'm not exactly in the optimal financial situation to buy another car, but if I was, these are the other cars I'll be looking at. These will likely be direct competitors with the Miata.
Saturn Sky
VW Concept R
Pontiac Solstice
EDIT: Added Solstice, "sister" to the Saturn Sky. The Sky looks much better imo.
Rear
I've always been skeptical of these Japanese Magazine spy shots, but this definately looks like a Miata. From what I've seen from spy shots and this picture, plenty of similar traits. So I honestly think this will resemble the real thing.
Regarding the front, it reminds me of the early S2000s with fog lamps. I feel the front grill is a bit too high on the car. Perhaps if the front grill was smaller, lower, and the front end looked a bit more aggressive, it would look pretty good. If the car was in a different color, I think it would look alot better.
Looks like Mazda is going with a 5 lug configuration this generation. I really don't like that because one of the best features on current Miatas is the interchangeability of most parts. Regarding the style, I think they're alright. The size appears to be perfect, but the style leaves a little to be desired. I personally would not purchase an aftermarket rim of that style. They look like 17s, and will likely be pretty heavy.
The rear looks alright. I believe the tail lights would look better on a different colored car (Silver/black), rather than Orange. I've noticed the dual tipped exhaust gives it a bit more aggressive look.
The front and wheels look okay, while the rear appears to have the best improvement. I think with a different color, the car would look alot better. I'll have to wait until I can see bigger, more detailed pictures, as well as the car in a different color.
As far as performance goes, its rumored to weigh between 2400-2500lbs. According to these scans, it weighs 1100kbs, about 2425lbs. Rumor has it, Mazda is going to have engine options, including the 2.3L I4 they use in the Mazda3 which puts out 160hp. Nothing yet on a Mazdaspeed version. I expect performance to be slightly higher than the current Miatas. Very close, but not quite as fast as the current Mazdaspeed version.
So as of now, I think the car would look better in a different color, but until I see it, I really can't decide. Until I see better/more pictures, I still think the Mazdaspeed Miata and the 2003 SE Blue look the best.
As far as new cars go, I really like the Saturn Sky, and the VW Concept R. If they're all within the same price range, with similar performance, its going to be a tough time for me to decide which to buy. As a Miata owner, I'm actually leaning towards the Sky/Concept R over the 3rd Gen Miata. I just didn't get that WOW factor with the new Miata than I did with the Sky/Concept R.
EDIT:
I'm not exactly in the optimal financial situation to buy another car, but if I was, these are the other cars I'll be looking at. These will likely be direct competitors with the Miata.
Saturn Sky
VW Concept R
Pontiac Solstice
EDIT: Added Solstice, "sister" to the Saturn Sky. The Sky looks much better imo.