Toyota And Mazda Reportedly Developing Next-Gen Miata And 86 As Twins
According to reports, Toyota and Mazda could be preparing to team up on their next sports cars—a move that could totally reshape the future of the MX-5 Miata
Key Points
- Mazda engineers are working with Toyota in Toyota City to co-develop the next-generation Miata and GR86 on an updated lightweight rear-drive platform.
- Both models will introduce hybrid technology, with Mazda using an updated 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired to an electric motor and Toyota adding its own hybrid system, each targeting around 200 hp.
- The collaboration means Toyota will end its sports car partnership with Subaru (BRZ), with the new Toyota–Mazda models expected to launch around 2028.
Rumors from Japan suggest the two automakers plan to combine forces on a shared platform that will underpin the successors to both the Miata and the GR86, with hybrid power expected for both cars.
According to Best Car, Mazda engineers have already joined the party at Toyota’s development hub in Toyota City to begin work on the project. The plan is to update the current Miata’s lightweight rear-drive platform rather than start fresh, with revisions to accommodate hybrid systems and the 2+2 seating configuration required for Toyota’s next-gen GR86.
It's unsurprising to hear Mazda needs a development partner for the next-gen Miata—if you can remember back a decade, the fourth-generation ND Miata might not even exist without Mazda's partnership with FCA to develop the Fiat 124 Spider.
Mazda is reportedly sticking with an evolution of its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder, now paired with a small electric motor for a combined output of roughly 200 horsepower. Toyota will fit its own hybrid system with similar performance. Both cars will retain rear-wheel drive and be assembled in Hiroshima, much like the Fiat 124 Spider was built alongside the Miata.
While the collaboration could give Mazda and Toyota enthusiasts a new wave of lightweight hybrid sports cars, it also means the Toyota-Subaru tie-up that produced the BRZ will come to an end. The new Toyota-Mazda sports cars are expected to arrive around 2028, giving the boxer-powered BRZ a few more years before the new joint venture takes over.
It's unclear what this potential tie-up could mean for the rumored resurrection of the Toyota Celica. It's entirely possible that Toyota kills off the GR86 name with the BRZ partnership and christens the new Miata twin as Celica. It's all just speculation at this point—have fun!
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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