Mazda's MX-5 SEMA concepts simplify and add lightness
Not every SEMA concept needs to be the most insane thing on the block.
Colin Chapman's famous quote, "Simplify and add lightness," is alive at well at Mazda. The company's SEMA concepts, both based on the MX-5 Miata, are simple, and in the case of one, it's lighter than ever before.
Its first SEMA debut is the MX-5 Speedster Evolution. The original MX-5 Speedster knocked approximately 250 pounds off the Miata's curb weight by removing the convertible roof and windshield, among other under-the-skin tricks. The Evolution shaves off yet another 100 pounds, and it's been given a pretty slick white paint job.
On the other side of the spectrum is the MX-5 RF Kuro concept. Based on the hard-topped MX-5 Retractable Fastback, the RF Kuro features a semi-matte black paint job ("Kuro" is Japanese for black). It's rocking a set of RAYS wheels and the hardcore, adjustable suspension from the MX-5 Cup racecar.
The cars strike very different looks, despite both being somewhat straightforward concepts. Mazda's design team in California put both concepts together, and the company claims the designs showcase a "Mazda Premium" experience while paying respects to the automaker's performance pedigree. I don't care if that's true or not. I just think they're some pretty great concept cars, and we'll be sure to check 'em out in person at SEMA next week.
