Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

Some time ago Mazda let slip to us that it would present a world debut at the British Motor Show this year. We had hoped it was to be a powerful MPS version of the MX-5, but it turns out to be the rather surprising MX-5 Roadster Coupe, or folding hardtop to you and I.

Your initial impression might be that having a folding hardtop option as well as the regular folding fabric roof model in the line-up is a little pointless, but we think there is definitely a market for this car. Admittedly, die-hard MX-5 enthusiasts will be up in arms about the dilution of the pure MX-5 concept, but in answer to that, Mazda has managed to keep the weight of the new roof mechanism down to a minimum, with no obvious effect on performance or handling. In addition, the roof neatly stows behind the seats, without encroaching on the car's boot space.

Many MX-5 owners in the past have bought a removable hardtop for winter use, but they are cumbersome to store and of course once fitted can't be removed and stored in the car on a sunny day. The new Roadster Coupe folding roof replaces the need for this and the premium over a regular MX-5 is not a lot more than the price of a removable hardtop, with a whole lot more convenience.

Friday July 21