Introduction: Toyota & Mazda Co-Develop Next-Gen MX-5 and GR86
Sports cars are alive and thriving—thanks to smart collaborations. Japan’s Toyota and Mazda have officially joined forces to co-develop the next-generation Mazda MX-5 and Toyota GR86, expected to launch by mid-2028. This partnership is set to combine Mazda’s expertise in lightweight sports cars with Toyota’s investment power, ensuring the future of two of the world’s most loved affordable performance cars.
Toyota and Mazda’s Strong Partnership
Toyota and Mazda’s collaboration isn’t new.
- In 2015, the companies signed a memorandum of understanding.
- By 2017, it expanded into a capital alliance with cross-shareholding.
- Together, they’ve already worked on electric vehicles, Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs), and OEM supply agreements.
Now, their cooperation is moving into the sports car segment, aiming to secure the future of affordable, fun-to-drive vehicles.
Why Collaboration Is Essential for Carmakers
In today’s auto industry, building cars independently is nearly impossible due to:
- Increasing demands in safety, suspension, and powertrain technology.
- Rising costs of R&D and manufacturing.
- The limited market size for sports cars, which sell in small numbers compared to SUVs.
Toyota, despite being the world’s biggest automaker, knows this reality. That’s why it has worked with BMW, Subaru, Aisin, Denso, and now continues its deep partnership with Mazda.
Leadership Passion for Driving
The partnership is also fueled by leadership passion:
- Akio Toyoda (Toyota Chairman) has raced the LFA and GR86 at the Nürburgring 24-hour race and competed in rallies.
- Masahiro Moro (Mazda President) has participated in Japan’s annual MX-5 Media 4-hour race for over a decade.
This shared enthusiasm ensures that the next-gen sports cars will stay true to their driver-focused roots.
The Next-Gen MX-5 and GR86 Platform
According to reports, Toyota has invested heavily to revise Mazda’s lightweight ND-spec MX-5 platform, particularly inspired by the 990S model (just 990 kg).
- Mazda MX-5 (2028): Will continue as a 2-seater lightweight roadster.
- Toyota GR86 (2028): Will use a stretched version of the same platform to become a 2+2 coupe. Toyota 2026 GR86
This marks a major shift since Toyota’s earlier GR86 was co-developed with Subaru.
Engine Options: Similar Power, Different Character
Both cars will share a platform but different powertrains:
- Toyota GR86 (2028): 2.0-liter hybrid naturally aspirated 4-cylinder, ~200+ hp.
- Mazda MX-5 (2028): Revised 2.0-liter engine, possibly hybrid-assisted, ~200 hp.
This approach allows each car to retain a unique driving feel, while still benefiting from cost-sharing.
A Proven Formula of Collaboration
Mazda has a track record of co-developing sports cars successfully.
- Example: The Mazda MX-5 and Fiat 124 Spider, both built on the same line with different engines, showed how cost-efficient collaborations can deliver exciting results.
Similarly, Toyota and Mazda’s latest partnership ensures the MX-5 legacy continues while giving Toyota a refined GR86.
Why This Matters for Sports Car Fans
Sports cars have faced declining sales for years, but partnerships like this prove they’re not going away. By sharing platforms and costs, Toyota and Mazda can continue producing fun, affordable cars for enthusiasts.
- Launch timeline: Mid-2028
- Production site: Mazda’s upgraded Hiroshima plant
- Promise: Affordable, lightweight, driver-focused performance cars. Best Car Insurance Companies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. When will the new Toyota GR86 and Mazda MX-5 be released?
The next-generation Toyota GR86 and Mazda MX-5 are expected to launch around mid-2028, according to reports from Japan’s Best Car magazine.
Q2. Will the new Mazda MX-5 be hybrid?
Yes, the upcoming Mazda MX-5 is rumored to feature a revised 2.0-liter engine with hybrid assistance, delivering around 200 horsepower
Q3. What engine will the next Toyota GR86 use?
The 2028 Toyota GR86 will likely use a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated hybrid engine, producing upwards of 200 horsepower.
Q4. will the new MX-5 and GR86 be produced?
Both cars are expected to be manufactured at Mazda’s Hiroshima plant in Japan, which will be upgraded to handle expanded production.
Q5. Why are Toyota and Mazda working together?
Developing sports cars is expensive and niche, so Toyota and Mazda are sharing costs and technology to keep the MX-5 roadster and GR86 coupe affordable and fun-to-drive.
Q6. Will the MX-5 and GR86 share the same platform?
Yes. The two cars will share a revised lightweight version of the current ND-spec MX-5 platform, but the GR86 will be stretched to a 2+2 coupe while the MX-5 stays a 2-seater roadster.
Conclusion
The Toyota-Mazda alliance is more than a business move—it’s a lifeline for enthusiasts who crave lightweight, fun-to-drive sports cars. With Toyota’s funding and Mazda’s engineering, the 2028 MX-5 and GR86 will carry forward the legacy of affordable performance, keeping driving excitement alive for the next generation.