Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata Although a little bit later than expected, Mazda and Fiat have signed a final agreement that will bring a next-generation MX-5 Miata to the Japanese automaker and a new roadster to Alfa Romeo. When the proposed arrangement was announced back in May, the two automakers had hoped to seal the deal last year, but it doesn't appear that the production timeline for these cars has slipped any, with both expected to start rolling off assembly lines in 2015.

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata logo

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata front view

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata rear view

Other than a shared chassis with a rear-wheel-drive layout, it sounds like the two cars are still planned to be distinct in their own ways from their styling right down to their engines. Mazda will produce both cars at a plant in Hiroshima, Japan, but it isn't clear what role each automaker will play in the cars' developmental process. The big question, of course, is what clever portmanteau name we can come up with, like Toyobaru. Mazda Romeo is the easy choice, but Alfazda might roll off the tongue a little better.

Mazda and Fiat finalize deal for Alfa roadster, next-gen MX-5 Miata Scroll down for a brief press release from both automakers.