Mazda hints at ‘exciting’ MX-5 evolution, more special editions

MAZDA Australia has only just whipped the silk off its unique MX-5 RF Limited Edition, and already there’s talk about more special versions joining the line-up.

Speaking at last week’s launch of the MX-5 RF LE, Mazda Australia spokesman Alastair Doak said the brand would look at ways it could keep the MX-5 range fresh, including a possible upgrade for soft-top models.

“I’m sure we’ll look at other limited editions down the track, we’ve done many over the history of MX-5. We’re very aware that we’re offering [the RF LE] as a very exclusive package and it will remain that way,” he said. “If we do another one, it will be different, it won’t be the same. We will certainly look at other things.”

The RF LE is the first MX-5 of the current generation to arrive in Australia with factory performance enhancements. It features upgraded Brembo brakes and Bilstein suspension that make it more suitable to club level motorsport.

Mazda Australia has the flexibility to call the shots when it comes to special models, says Doak, referring back to the local outfit’s history of uniquely upgraded MX-5s.

“There’s opportunities. Over the almost 30 year history of MX-5 we’ve done lots, including things like the SP with the turbocharged engine we did locally.”

Doak was coy when asked if this was just the start of more go-faster upgrades for the ND.

“There’s a very solid plan for MX-5 that we know is coming. We’re pretty excited for some of the things that are down the track on the car.”

So, is a powertrain upgrade next? “I’d better not go near that one,” he said.

“There will be an evolution of the car – there has to be – an exciting one.”

The current, fourth-gen model has had the strongest sales start of any MX-5 in Australia. Our local line-up is one of the broadest globally, with both the 1.5- and 2.0-litre engines offered in the Roadster models, and the Retractable Fastback variants on top of those.

“If you ignore the kei cars in Japan, Mazda Australia has the most comprehensive Mazda range in the world. We’re very privileged that we can actually do that,” Doak said.

“[Mazda Australia] is very much at the pointy end of discussions. We get a big say in product and we’re very grateful for that.

“Now is a nice time in the model cadence to do a limited edition; get it out in front of people again and remind them. Because sports car buyers have proven to always want the latest and greatest, so it's always nice to get back out there and talk about it and remind people how great this car is.”