Mazda Unleashes the Roadster RS in Japan (But We Can’t Have it)

Mazda Roadster RS

Mazda has just unveiled a new version of the redesigned Roadster – known as the MX-5 Miata here in the U.S. – and it includes a handful of performance upgrades. Unfortunately, none of the upgrades that make up this new Roaster RS make it any more powerful, but they will help out in agility and comfort.

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On the handling side of things, this new Roadster RS features Billstein dampers and a front strut brace to stiffen things up a bit. At the corners, there are larger brakes to help drag this lightweight roadster to a halt quickly. Finally, the steering rack gets a mild upgrade that allows it to turn in more sharply.

The only modification to the drivetrain is an upgraded exhaust system. Unfortunately, this system seems to be all for show, as it does nothing to increase the 129 horsepower produced by this model’s 1.5-liter engine.

Mazda Roadster RS

On the inside, there are a few upgrades to help distinguish this model a bit. The Roadster RS gains heated Recaro seats wrapped in Nappa leather and Alcantara trim, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system for the audiophiles out there.

On the outside, the only thing that this RS model gains is adaptive front lighting with high-beam control. Other additions to this model include lane-departure warning and a blind-spot-warning system.

There are no details regarding the Roadster RS’ price, nor is there any information about an equivalent model making its way to the U.S. lineup. For now, unfortunately, this will only be available in the JDM.