Fiat Borrows the Next-Gen Mazda MX-5 Platform for a New Alfa Romeo Roadster

Mazda and Fiat, Alfa Romeo’s parent company have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development and manufacturing of a new roadster for the Mazda and Alfa Romeo brands based on Mazda’s next-generation MX-5 rear-wheel-drive architecture.

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Mazda and Fiat, Alfa Romeo’s parent company have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development and manufacturing of a new roadster for the Mazda and Alfa Romeo brands based on Mazda’s next-generation MX-5 rear-wheel-drive architecture.

Mazda and Fiat will develop two roadsters that will share the same basic platform, but their styling will be different. The Mazda and Alfa Romeo roadsters will each be powered by specific engines unique to each brand. Both roadsters will be built at Mazda’s Hiroshima, Japan plant starting in 2015.
“Establishing technology and product development alliances is one of Mazda’s corporate
objectives and this announcement with Fiat is an important first step in that direction. It is
especially exciting to be collaborating with such a prestigious marque as Alfa Romeo on a
new roadster based on the next-generation MX-5, which is such an iconic vehicle for Mazda and recognized as the best-selling roadster of all time.” said Takashi Yamanouchi, Mazda’s Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO.

“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 recognized 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.