Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The Magic of the Mazda MX-5 MiataThe Mazda MX-5 Miata has survived over a decade in its current generation. This venerable age might seem like a disadvantage in today's highly competitive market. Enthusiasts actually consider it a massive asset. Fans adore this diminutive sports car because it harks back to a brilliant analog era. Many modern vehicles are bogged down by excessive electronics and heavy batteries. In contrast, the roadster's sheer driving purity proudly stands out. It perfectly proves how unnecessarily over-techy and expensive modern vehicles have become.Mazda remains strictly dedicated to the back-to-basics formula that made the roadster a global phenomenon. Drivers crave lightweight chassis dynamics and engaging manual transmissions. The current lineup beautifully encapsulates this winning strategy. Buyers exploring the latest iterations of the 2026 model year know exactly what they are getting. They secure a thrilling Rear Wheel Drive experience without breaking the bank.MazdaExecutive Warnings on the Combustion EngineA massive shift is looming on the horizon for the legendary sports car. Mazda Australia CEO Vinesh Bhindi recently spoke with CarExpert and dropped a significant hint during a local launch event. He shared insights from a visiting executive regarding the upcoming fifth-generation model. The executive also suggested it will likely be the final internal combustion engine version.AdvertisementAdvertisement"One of the executives who visited us early in the year said, 'Yes, there will be a new one. When? We can't comment,'" Bhindi told the publication. "He also hinted at it possibly being the last ICE version."Development of this highly anticipated car remains ongoing. Mazda intends to use a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine from the new Skyactiv Z family. The engineering team even plans to keep the total curb weight under 1,000 kilograms. Achieving this ambitious target would be truly remarkable given modern safety mandates and potential mild-hybrid additions.Enthusiasts are understandably nervous about a fully electric future. The core identity of this beloved nameplate revolves around lightness and mechanical simplicity. A heavy battery pack could completely alter its nimble handling characteristics. Many purists wonder if inevitable powertrain modifications will ruin the beloved roadster. Mazda faces a steep uphill battle to engineer an electric sports car that actually feels genuine.MazdaThe LowdownThe inevitable transition to electrification is rapidly closing in on every major automaker. Tightening emissions regulations in Europe and other key markets will make gas-powered sports cars unviable by 2035. This harsh reality means the upcoming generation is living on borrowed time before it even launches. Buyers should not panic just yet. The next iteration is not expected to arrive until at least 2028.AdvertisementAdvertisementThat timeline gives driving purists plenty of runway to enjoy the traditional recipe. The fifth generation will likely carry the combustion torch well into the early 2030s. We have over a decade left to buy a brand-new Miata with a roaring gas engine. The future might be electric, but the present remains gloriously analog.Cole AttishaThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Jun 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.