The Miata is the weapon of choice for auto-crossers, budget minded sports car enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a pure driving experience. Even through the tough car times the Miata was a true sports car outlet for the enthusiast, and now we learn of the new version. It will basically be like the old Miata but with some cosmetic upgrades and new color choices.
For those more concerned about performance, care has been taken to bump throttle response and provide better brake feel. Mazda says these changes will result in a more rewarding driving experience all while following their philosophy of keeping the car light and nimble.
Hit the jump for the full press release from Mazda.
Source: Mazda
Mazda to Launch Upgraded Mazda Roadster in Japan
– An aggressive new look and even more fun to drive –
HIROSHIMA, Japan-Mazda Motor Corporation has upgraded the Mazda Roadster (known overseas as the Mazda MX-5) for the Japanese market. The refreshed two-seater open-top sports car goes on sale today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan.
The design of the upgraded Roadster distinguishes between the sporty character of the soft top and the refined character of the power retractable hard top (RHT) through the use of coordinated black and silver features respectively. The front face of both versions has been redesigned to present a more aggressive look. For the interior, a new luxury tan color is available for the genuine leather seats. In addition, revised characteristics of the throttle and brake booster (power braking device) have improved control of the accelerator in the manual transmission models and the brakes in all models. The enhancements add polish to the pure driving pleasure which has made the Roadster (MX-5) famous.
In addition, the updated Roadster features an Active Bonnet (pedestrian protection system) which raises the rear end of the bonnet in the event of an accident to reduce impact to the head.
Main features of the upgraded Mazda Roadster
A distinct character for the RHT and Soft-top version
The keywords guiding the design of the soft top were “tight sports”. Coordinated black features express sportiness
The keywords guiding the design of the RHT were “premium sports.” Coordinated silver features denote refined, high quality driving performance
Front face has a sense of depth with a larger front grille opening
Newly designed front fog lamp bezel
New front chin spoiler
New body color, Dolphin Gray Mica now available (Total seven body colors are available. Metropolitan Gray Mica is no longer available).
A lustrous and expressive new color, Glossy Dark Gray is used for the decoration panel and steering wheel bezel. (The color is an option for the Soft Top version of the S model grade.)
Addition of a new tan color for the genuine leather seat covers. Black on the seat sides creates a stylish two-tone design. Fabric (black), leather (tan and black) and a combination of Alcantara® and black leather seat cover materials are available.
Sports car driving pleasure taken to the next level
Enhanced acceleration control (manual transmission models)
Fine adjustments to the throttle management program make it more responsive when accelerating out of corners. This creates a linear and nimble feel.
Enhanced braking control
Changes to the characteristics of the brake booster (power braking device) make it easier to control the front and rear load distribution, increasing the feel of mastery over the vehicle.
Newly developed active bonnet for all model grades
Active bonnet
At certain vehicle speeds, when sensors detect an impact exceeding a defined level, the rear end of the bonnet is raised. This creates a space between the bonnet and the engine which acts to absorb the energy of impact and reduces the severity of head injuries in collisions involving pedestrians.
Cutting weight one gram at a time
In order to keep weight down, uncompromising attention was paid to weight reduction in the design of new parts including the re-designed front bumper, the active bonnet, the new 17-inch aluminum wheels and the internal wiring.