Mazda introduces sportier MX-5 GT RS twins

MAZDA Australia has upped the dynamic ante of its iconic MX-5 sportscar with the introduction of two GT RS variants that inject an added sense of sportiness to the range courtesy of upgraded suspension and brakes.

Due to arrive in Australia next month priced from $47,020 (Roadster) and $51,100 (RF) plus on-road costs, the GT RS twins will perch squarely at the top of their respective ranges in terms of dynamic prowess, with the RS badging signalling the installation of Bilstein suspension and Brembo brakes.

Designed specifically “to appeal to driving enthusiasts”, the GT RS variants are powered by the familiar 135kW/205Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and drive the rear wheels exclusively via a six-speed manual transmission.

While no mechanical changes have been made to the engine itself, the engine bay has had a minor tweak in the form of an alloy strut tower brace linking the front suspension struts for “improved rigidity and steering response”.

To mark them out against the rest of the MX-5 range, the GT RS pair brandish their own unique 17-inch forged alloy wheels – shod with sticky Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres – and black mirror caps.

Save for the new wheels and black mirror caps, the new sports flagships mirror the styling of the rest of the range, just as they do with the regular GTs’ standard equipment lists.

On the topic of the broader MX-5 range, wireless Apple CarPlay has been added to all variants for the 2021 model year, as has a new ‘Deep Crystal Blue’ paint finish.

RF GT Black Roof variants also score a new ‘Pure White’ Nappa leather interior option.

The addition of wireless CarPlay has added $200 to the asking prices of the range with the new GT RS’ slipping in $3000 upstream of their standard GT stablemates.

According to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, the MX-5 is the epitome of the brand’s Zoon-Zoom philosophy with the GT RS being the latest in a long line of dynamically focused variants.

“Australia has a proud history of localised MX-5 variants, including the turbocharged NB-series MX-5 SP which produced astounding performance,” he said.

“These new MX-5 GT RS variants offer more focused dynamics with upgraded suspension and braking systems that provide greater feedback, control and performance.

“They are a perfect addition to our updated MX-5 range, which now offers advanced connectivity and fresh exterior and interior finishes.”

Mazda has sold 461 MX-5s so far this year ending November, accounting for 7.7 per cent of the sub-$80,000 sportscar segment – just five units less than it managed over the same period in 2019.

2021 Mazda MX-5 pricing*

*Excludes on-road costs