Mazda Steps Up the Two-Seat Convertible Wars
- June 20, 2006
- Mazda, New Model Introductions
- Posted by George Peterson
- 2 Comments
Optional Power Retractable Hard Top to Join MX-5’s Options List
Though the news has not found its way to Mazda’s U.S. web site, the home-market branch announced today that the MX-5 convertible gets a new power retractable hard top option that will be offered in North America, Europe, and Japan. More details will be available after its formal introduction at the London auto show in mid-July, but we at VehicleVoice couldn’t wait to bring you the first pictures. Shown here is the European spec model.
In Japan, the hardtop model will be called Mazda Roadster Power Retractable Hard Top, in Europe the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe, and in North America the Mazda MX-5 (Miata) Power Retractable Hard Top.
With the new hard top, Mazda is raising the stakes against newcomers from Pontiac and Saturn in the affordable, two-seat convertible market. Will Mazda sell lots of hard-top-equipped MX-5s in the States? Probably not. While experts at AutoPacific do not expect that the model will dramatically increase sales or account for a large percent of the overall mix, Mazda may see a small increase with the new option. More important, it puts General Motors on notice that Mazda will not be giving up their share of this market without a fight. It is also not the only trick up Mazda’s sleeve, as a MazdaSpeed MX-5 is also in the works.
Check back next month, when we expect to have more details about the U.S. on-sale date and equipment for the U.S.-specification models.
2 Comments
Bought one in October and LOVE IT.
We have owned a 90 Miata that has been reliable and fun for years and years. The only problem My wife gets the MX-5 and I get the ’90….
Finally a power retractable hard top for 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Even the Sky and Solstice will be offered at a lower price, the new Miata will sure be a hit with its edgy looks and promise of good in-road performance.