Mazda-Made Alfa Romeo Roadster Officially Confirmed

Mazda and Fiat have officially confirmed a Mazda-made Alfa Romeo roadster due in 2015. It will be developed for the global market and be based on the next-gen Mazda MX-5. The agreement mentions both Mazda and Fiat will make "two differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive." Each car will be powered by brand-specific proprietary engines. The Alfa Romeo open-top two-seater sports car will be manufactured starting in 2015 at Mazda's plant located in Hiroshima, Japan. The next generation of the MX-5 is expected to lose 220 lbs (100 kg) and could come with a 4-cylinder, 1.3-liter turbocharged engine producing about 200 hp (149 kW). Mazda plans to offer a high level of customization options for the new Miata. (worldcarfans)