Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

Further details of Mazda's new folding tin-top MX-5 Roadster Coupe have been released. Featuring the World's fastest retractable hard-top, only 12 seconds top-up or top-down, there will be six models in the range starting from &gbp;18,210 (on-the-road) - &gbp;1,200 over the soft top models.The MX-5 Roadster Coupe has climate control air conditioning and the Option Pack as standard on the 1.8i and 2.0i models.

There is a choice of 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 to personalise their car.

"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 for 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."

All Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupes currently 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.

Two new mica colour options have been added - Stormy Blue and Copper Red, plus one mica - Galaxy Grey, one metallic - Sunlight Silver and two solids - Brilliant Black and True Red.

The six-model range starts with the 1.8i Option Pack and every model will feature stylish alloy wheels 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) - to give the new model a truly premium appearance.

The new Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe is just 10mm taller than the soft top version and has lost none of its sister car's beautifully balanced driving dynamics which so accurately reflect the Japanese ideal of Jinba Ittai, the symbiosis between rider and horse. Although the MX-5 Roadster Coupe weighs an extra 37kg, it still achieves an ideal 50:50 weight distribution because the roof retracts into a space behind the seats - just like the soft-top MX-5. This perfect balance between the front and rear axles ensures maximum agility and fun-to-drive motoring pleasure.

When retracted the roof leaves the boot space untouched, does not compromise luggage capacity and ensures that the driver or passenger in an MX-5 Roadster Coupe can open or close the roof quickly and easily without needing to step out of the car.

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