This new Mazda MX-5 is the perfect car for summer

With enough comfort and practicality as a daily commuter and enough playfulness for a fun Sunday drive, what’s not to like about the Roadster GT RS?

Tony DavisMotoring writer

Nov 10, 2021 – 5.00am

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What is it? The Mazda MX-5 Roadster GT RS is a special edition of the fourth-generation (ND series) Mazda ragtop. The GT is described as an Australia-only enthusiast-focused version, bringing together a lighter and more powerful brake package, upgraded wheels and tyres, Bilstein gas-pressurised dampers and new under-bonnet strut tower bracing. There are no engine changes.

What does it cost? $47,020 plus on-road costs. Other MX-5 variants range from $36,090 (plus orc) for the base Roadster with a 1.5-litre engine instead of the usual 2-litre, through to $51,120 for the dearest version of the RF, or Retractable Fastback, with electrically powered hardtop. “Premium” paint, such as the Machine Grey Metallic on our car, carries a $495 sting.