MX-5 hard-top details revealed
Mazda lifts the lid on spec details
There'll be three powertrains (1.8i or 2.0i with 5-speed gearbox, 2.0i Sport with 6-speed gearbox), and a range of individual options and accessories. Prices for the Roadster Coupé range will start from £18,210 (on the road) -- £1,200 up on soft-top. But, points out Mazda, both climate control air conditioning and the Option Pack are standard on the 1.8i and 2.0i Roadster Coupe models.
From the six-strong line-up, the UK’s Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupé Web site offers a choice of three range-topping models (2.0i Option Pack with Leather, 2.0i Sport and 2.0i Sport with BOSE), for delivery from November 2006.
All Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupés available on the pre-order website feature two chamber side airbags for the head and torso as standard, integrated into the seatback sides. The upper chamber protects the occupant’s head, remains firmer and inflated longer than the lower chamber, achieving an effect similar to curtain airbags in a closed-body vehicle. The lower, smaller airbag chamber provides optimal protection for the torso. Dynamic stability control with a traction control system is also standard.
A choice of six body colours is available – including two new mica colours (Stormy Blue and Copper Red), plus one mica (Galaxy Grey), one metallic (Sunlight Silver) and two solids (Brilliant Black and True Red).
The hard-top comes only with alloys as standard – 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels (on 1.8i and 2.0i Option Pack models) and 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels (on 2.0i Sport models).
Every model gets iPod connectivity via a socket in the glovebox and controllable using steering-wheel mounted audio controls. Buyers will also be able to order a BOSE ‘SoundDock’ home iPod docking station at a 20 per cent discount on the normal retail price.
The Roadster Coupé sits 10 mm higher than the soft-top and weighs an extra 37kg, but retains 50:50 weight distribution because the roof retracts into a space behind the seats, reckons Mazda. When retracted the roof leaves the boot space untouched, does not compromise luggage capacity and ensures that the driver or passenger can open or close the roof quickly and easily without needing to step out of the car.
Security features include a Thatcham 1 alarm and immobiliser, and a low insurance group.
“Global demand for the new Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is already very strong, so availability is going to be a little bit restricted this year,” commented Mark Cameron, Marketing Director Mazda Motors UK. “We have several hundred cars destined for the UK, but to be sure of obtaining the model they desire, customers should visit the pre-order website and reserve their vehicle soon to avoid the possible disappointment of having to wait until 2007 for the car of their dreams.”
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