Mazda to debut 152kW MX-5 GT
2012-06-26 08:28
TAKING ON SUPERCAR RIVALS: Mazda hopes its new MX-5 GT concept will prove a success amongst fans and depending on customer reaction we could see this new model heading to production.
LONDON, England - Mazda will debut its road legal 152kW MX-5 GT Concept at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Japanese automaker will race its new roadster in the hillclimb's "First Glance" category.
The car was inspired by Mazda’s podium-winning MX-5 GT race programme and its debut at Goodwood will gauge customer reaction to a high-performance version of the iconic machine which was built by race specialists Jota Sport.
The new model sports a non-turbo 2.0 petrol powerplant capable of 152kW and mated to manual gearbox.
BUILT FOR THE TRACK
The suspension has been improved and is adjustable for various track conditions. Aerodynamics have boosted due to a carbon front splitter, rear diffuser and boot spoiler.
Alongside the MX-5 GT Concept, Mazada will also showcase its CX-5 SUV. Also on display at the festival will be the future of the Mazda6 - the Takeri sedan concept.
The Jota Sport Mazda MX-5 GT4 is currently racing in the 2012 British GT championship. The MX-5 GT has a top speed of 260km/h and can rocket from 0-100km/h in five seconds.
Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda UK, said: "This year at the Goodwood Festival of Speed we have a number of significant cars on the stand and contesting the hill climb.
The MX-5 has been our best known car for 22 years and, with the GT4 and GT Concept on show, we are demonstrating that this car can compete with the more expensive race and performance cars but still remain true to its roots of affordable motoring with a strong focus on the driving experience."
Buyers who want to purchase the car for circuit racing can have the model fitted with road slicks and body-coloured rollover hoops.
The Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place on June 28, 2012.
