Mazda has introduced the MX-5 Yusho concept at the AMI Motor Show in Leipzig, Germany.
With the MX-5 nearing the end of its life cycle, speculation is rife on what the next model might deliver. Mazda has promised a platform that will remain loyal to the original “Jinba ittai” formula, focusing on a lightweight build, moderate power and segment-leading handling, but while the MX-5 has always followed its tradition, Mazda has shown in the past that it isn’t averse to the odd dose of forced induction. Enter the MX-5 Yusho concept…
Named after the Japanese word for victory, the Yusho features a matte white exterior with a carbon fiber diffuser, boot lid spoiler and 17-inch alloy wheels. There’s also Recaro sport seats and a suede-wrapped steering wheel. The MX-5 Yusho rolls on a set of semi-click Toyo Proxes R888 tyres, size 215/45 R17 and sports suspension consisting of Bilstein absorbers, larger stabiliser bars and lowering springs from Eibach.
Under the bonnet lies a heavily tuned 2.0-litre MZR, four-cylinder, petrol engine, gaining a supercharger, intercooler, Cosworth pistons and connecting rods, a custom exhaust system and reprogrammed ECU. Other upgrades include new fuel injectors and sport catalysts along with a competition-spec clutch for the transmission. The modifications amount to a power increase of 59 kW and a 86 Nm increase of torque for a total of 177 kW and 274 Nm. A six-speed manual transmission enables the Yusho concept to reach a top speed of 240 km/h. The benchmark 0 – 100 km/h sprint time is unknown at this stage, but expect it wot be considerably faster than the standard MX-5′s time of 7.6 seconds.
While these types of engine modifications are not uncommon in the tuning world, it’s interesting to see Mazda toying with forced induction on its traditionally naturally aspirated car. Whether this is a sign of things to come for the future MX-5 we don’t know, but a SkyActiv engine is assured and as for the rest, only time will tell.
