Mazda teases next-gen Miata’s rear end

As we near the event formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show (now rebranded as Japan Mobility Show), Japan’s carmakers are releasing teasers of what they’ll be showing off. It’s Mazda’s turn, and they’ve announced that the theme for the 2023 show will be all about the Miata. The teaser they’ve revealed is likely the next-generation Roadster/MX-5/Miata, but we’ve all basically seen the whole thing already.

Last year Mazda presented the Vision Study Model, a striking sports car concept that appeared to blend cues of the Miata with those of the RX-7. The teaser, with its Venn diagram taillights, “MAZDA” script written out (as opposed to the flying M logo), and vertical brake light, seems to match perfectly with this car.

In a statement released by Mazda, the company reaffirms its commitment to driving fun in the age of electrification: “Mazda’s stand, which will be based around the theme of ‘The future created by the love of cars,’ is designed to show Mazda’s continued commitment to the creation of products that satisfy customers’ love of driving and cars.” The Roadster is Mazda’s mascot, and they’ve stated that it will continue on no matter what powertrain is under its skin.

There aren’t any more details right now. Our guess? While the Vision Study Model is a fixed-roof car, we think that the Tokyo concept will be an open top roadster, as per Miata tradition. In addition to the Miata concept, Mazda says it will showcase an NA Roadster alongside it at the booth, calling the original “an enduring symbol of Mazda’s original commitment to the joy of driving.”

Furthermore, Mazda’s booth seems well equipped to inspire the next generation of car enthusiasts. There’ll be a 2/3 scale MX-5 acting as a driving simulator for kids and an MX-5 SeDV (Self-empowerment Driving Vehicle) that can be controlled by hands alone for people with disabilities. Mazda will also participate in a child-centric KidZania installation with activities designed for budding gearheads. A sand casting experience is designed for elementary school students, while a stamping activity is designed for preschoolers. Both take place inside a mock-up of a Mazda factory.

The Tokyo Motor Show takes place once every two years, and in 2021 it was canceled due to the pandemic. It’s been four years since Japan’s carmakers could really strut their stuff, so that’s probably why we’ve seen them really go all-out with fun concepts and callbacks to iconic designs. Joining the Miata concept will be a Subaru sports coupe, a modernized Honda City, and an out-of-left-field surprise sports car from Daihatsu. If these cars come to pass the next few years may actually yield some pretty exciting results.