Mazda has enjoyed a strong start to the year in the U.S. market. With Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) reporting a robust 10% sales increase for the first half, totaling 202,486 units, the automaker has outperformed the broader industry.
Both the car and crossover SUV segments contributed to this success, with respective growth rates of 5.8% and 10.7%. While crossovers undeniably dominated sales, accounting for over 180,000 units, the sedan segment also showed promise, especially the Mazda3 Sedan which saw a significant 32% sales jump.
However, not all segments fared equally well. The iconic MX-5 Miata, nearing its decade-long production run despite multiple refreshes, experienced a concerning 27.4% sales decline. As anticipation grows for the fifth-generation model, the automotive design community has already begun speculating on its appearance, with various digital renderings offering an imaginative look into potential directions for the beloved roadster.
An independent designer, Paweł Dworczyk, has crafted a digital homage to the iconic Mazda MX-5, simply titled “Miata.” This open-top reimagining seeks to distill the original NA model’s essence, stripping away superfluous elements while infusing contemporary design cues.
The concept is an example of a minimalist design philosophy that emphasizes balanced handling, lightweight design, and the intuitive engagement of a manual gearbox.
All of this while maintaining the MX-5’s reputation for being reasonably priced. While the interior features a fascinating juxtaposition of retro and modern materials, the outside design pays attention to the informal look of the original.
A panoramic display, high-end fabrics, and digital rear-view mirrors create a tasteful and harmonious marriage of the old and the new while remaining true to the essence of the classic roadster.
