2003 Mazda Ibuki Concept

The 2003 Mazda Ibuki Concept was Mazda’s forward-looking take on a lightweight, open-top sports car, strongly evoking the spirit of the original 1989 MX-5. Presented at the Tokyo Motor Show and later at the 2004 Chicago Auto Show, the Ibuki was widely regarded as a conceptual predecessor to the third-generation MX-5, launched in 2005. The concept's name, “Ibuki,” translates from Japanese as "breathing new energy," and indeed, it introduced fresh ideas and technologies designed to elevate the iconic roadster's legacy.

Under the hood, the Ibuki featured a 1.6-liter MZR inline-four engine paired with an electric motor, combining to produce 180 horsepower and 180 Nm of torque. This mild hybrid system allowed regenerative braking, engine start-stop capabilities, and an electric motor that served as a partial replacement for the flywheel, which helped minimize vibration and conserve fuel. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, the powertrain adhered to Mazda’s sporty driving ethos.

Mazda’s engineers placed a significant emphasis on handling and weight distribution by adopting a "super front-midship" layout. This positioned the engine and other major components within the wheelbase, similar to the design of the RX-8. The engine sat 400 mm further back than the current MX-5, with the air conditioning unit cleverly relocated behind the seats, lowering the center of gravity and optimizing weight balance for improved handling.

Mazda also prioritized lightness and sustainability in the Ibuki’s construction. Its body included plastic body panels and a reinforced open-frame structure, with strategic use of lightweight materials like aluminum for the brake discs, carbon fiber for the engine frame and propeller shaft, and magnesium alloy for the wheels. The overall design emphasized Mazda’s commitment to an agile, driver-focused experience while integrating environmental consciousness with the use of recyclable plant-based plastics.

Safety was another core consideration, with the Ibuki featuring a four-point active rollbar that deployed under sensor control in the event of a rollover. This innovative mix of safety, performance, and lightweight construction made the Ibuki a standout among Mazda’s concepts, solidifying its reputation as a car that captured both the essence of the classic MX-5 and a bold vision for its future.