2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Q&A with Derek Jenkins, Director of Design

In light of the Mazda Miata’s 25th anniversary, the upcoming 2016 Mazda MX-5 is receiving a lot of attention, even well before its release. Autobytel recently attended a Q&A session hosted by Derek Jenkins, who’s the Director of Design for Mazda North America. Though attendees asked a lot of questions that Mazda won’t answer yet, enough information was revealed to excite Miata and MX-5 fans. One of the best elements of the car’s design, Jenkins said, is its proportions, because after years of Miata redesigns, the team came up with a really good balance for a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive roadster. Mazda’s been aiming to achieve this ideal proportioning, with a perfect front overhang and rear balance, its other vehicles for quite some time. Finally, with the new 2016 MX-5, the proportions are both classic and contemporary, which is essential for an update of such an iconic car. A driver-centric cockpit focuses on the tachometer, which adds an element of sportiness, yet the interior design team worked to bring both the classic and contemporary elements together again. And, for those who are curious, Mazda won’t reveal if there is a hard top version of the 2016 MX-5 in the works, what exterior colors will be available, or if there are any special editions planned.