Today a new partnership was born in the automotive business as Fiat and Mazda signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development and manufacturing of a new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5. The new roadster will carry the Mazda and Alfa Romeo badges and unlike the Subaru BRZ, Toyota FT-86 and the Scion FR-S, each model will get a specific engine unique to the brand. Still, both vehicles will be manufactured at Mazda's Hiroshima, Japan, plant with production for Alfa Romeo envisaged starting in 2015. As you may know already, the Mazda MX-5 is the best-selling roadster of all time and we must admit that this is not a bad move, at least for Fiat. “This agreement clearly demonstrates our commitment to Alfa Romeo and the determination to grow it into a truly global brand. By partnering with Mazda, we will be co-operating with the recognised leader in compact rear-drive vehicle architectures in order to deliver an exciting and stylish roadster in the Alfa Romeo tradition. We are appreciative of this collaboration with Mazda and look forward to maintaining a fruitful and continuous relationship." said Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne.
Fiat, Mazda plan to develop and build a new roadster
by Andrew Christian, Email, 23 May, 2012
Mazda MX-5
