Mazda MX-5 MPS

Will they build an MX-5 MPS? According to US site Autoweek an MX-5 MPS could be in production and ready for US market showrooms as early as next year. This will be couple of years prior to an expected 2010 re-design of the hairdressers ‘preferred’ rag-top. The car pictured below is the Japanese home market MazdaSpeed MZ tune MX5 but you get the idea...

The re-design is required to comply with new US safety laws regarding rear end collision protection, the requirements of which are not met by the current MX-5.

It would make perfect sense. A rear wheel drive, light weight convertible body, the multi award winning 2.3-litre turbo-charged four-cylinder engine (as seen in the 3 MPS) all featured in an ‘ultimate’ version of the car that has been a cult classic for nearly 20 years.

Will this be the MX-5 version that finally shakes off the girly hairdresser car image? I for one can confirm that the MX-5 is an awesome drive in its current form, but being seen driving it is a completely different story. [Editors note – I'd be happy to be seen in one but I am a bit older…]

Some die hard enthusiasts would argue the MX5 doesn’t need anymore power and instead talk about poise and balance. I say bring on the MPS version! If it should go ahead, expect it to be released in the US in late 2008.

Darcy

[Source:Autoweek]