Photo: Mazda
Mazda has said no to a turbocharged version of the new Miata, not that this will stop tuners from making one. However, the Japanese automaker has been rolling out special editions at a steady pace.
This is the latest, called Mazda Roadster RS. Even though it sounds like it's been made by Renaultsport, the special edition doesn't bring any more power. Honestly, we don't know why we bother getting our hopes up.
Of course, this being Japan, power is not a priority. So instead of being fitted with the big 2-liter engine the Roadster RS uses the basic 1.5-liter unit. The output remains unchanged at 131 PS (delivered at 7,000rpm) and 150 Nm of torque. The only transmission available is the 6-speed manual.
The Roadster RS is designed to appeal to track enthusiasts and comes with an upgraded adjustable suspension system from Bilstein as a result. To stiffen the little sportscar even further, Mazda have also installed a tower brace in the engine compartment. An upgraded brake package should provide a bit of extra reassurance when tackling the Fuji circuit.
Interior changes have also been made. For example, the standard seats have been thrown out and replaced by Recaro buckets covered in a combination of Nappa leather and Alcantara. A bit of red piping on the side adds appeal to the otherwise sober cabin.
But the Roadster RS is not a stripped out track car. For everyday use, Japanese drivers can play their banging beats on the nine-speaker Bose audio system and toast up their buns on the seat heaters.
The 2015 Miata is still a sportscar for the modern age, thoroughly digital and impressively well equipped. An optional i-Eloop system can help lower fuel consumption while lane-departure warning system, a blind spot monitoring system, and rear cross traffic alert keep you safe.
Of course, this being Japan, power is not a priority. So instead of being fitted with the big 2-liter engine the Roadster RS uses the basic 1.5-liter unit. The output remains unchanged at 131 PS (delivered at 7,000rpm) and 150 Nm of torque. The only transmission available is the 6-speed manual.
The Roadster RS is designed to appeal to track enthusiasts and comes with an upgraded adjustable suspension system from Bilstein as a result. To stiffen the little sportscar even further, Mazda have also installed a tower brace in the engine compartment. An upgraded brake package should provide a bit of extra reassurance when tackling the Fuji circuit.
Interior changes have also been made. For example, the standard seats have been thrown out and replaced by Recaro buckets covered in a combination of Nappa leather and Alcantara. A bit of red piping on the side adds appeal to the otherwise sober cabin.
But the Roadster RS is not a stripped out track car. For everyday use, Japanese drivers can play their banging beats on the nine-speaker Bose audio system and toast up their buns on the seat heaters.
The 2015 Miata is still a sportscar for the modern age, thoroughly digital and impressively well equipped. An optional i-Eloop system can help lower fuel consumption while lane-departure warning system, a blind spot monitoring system, and rear cross traffic alert keep you safe.
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