Mazda adds a spicy touch to three of its models

At the Tokyo Motor Show, Mazda showed three very radical and spicy versions of the Mazda MX-5, the Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda3, which make us wonder whether they are a preview of the MPS versions.

The Tokyo Motor Show closed its doors a few days ago and, although it was not a show full of novelties, we did see some creations that were, at the very least, curious. Above all, it was the brands playing at home that most lifted the atmosphere, and some launches such as the recreation of the Honda S2000 2020 or the Subaru Levorg Prototype STI Sport.

The three models chosen to receive that extra dash of spice are well known to the general public: the Mazda MX-5, the Mazda CX-5 and the Mazda3. These three radical versions arrive a few months after the presentation of the competition model, the Mazda3 TCR.

The Japanese brand is in the midst of an evolution process, so it has also taken the opportunity to venture into the electric and/or electrified car market with the Mazda CX-30.

An extra spicy touch that suits them perfectly

The three units presented at the Japanese show were not units like the ones we are used to seeing on our roads, but arrived as concepts fitted with elements from the manufacturer’s high-performance competition department.

The three models were decorated with the same look, so the grey body colour stood out in contrast with the red accents on the lower part of the doors. The white circles on the sides, like competition race numbers, also stand out, although the number displayed refers to the model. To finish it off, the brand has added the “Mazda Motorsport” emblem to the rear doors.

The changes are not only cosmetic: all three models fit a new sport suspension, a specific sport exhaust system and oversized brakes. In addition, the cabin features sport bucket seats with six-point harnesses and Alcantara.

Mazda MPS: will the brand revive its most radical models?

Although at first glance the three radicalised models share equipment, each one has a series of characteristics that make it even more special.

Mazda MX-5

The legendary roadster from the Japanese brand now fits Rays 18-inch wheels shod with Bridgestone Potenza tyres. There are also changes to its styling, with a new body kit that includes a spoiler, a roll bar to protect the cabin and stabiliser bars to improve the rigidity of the whole.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 fits the same Rays wheels as its siblings, the Mazda MX-5 and the Mazda3, but in 20 inches. Like the Mazda3, it also fits a sport pedal set and some small sporty touches that make the model appear to belong to a premium segment.

Technical specifications of the cars in this article

RoadsterMazda MX-513 versions · from 32,550 €

Off-RoadMazda CX-57 versions · from 35,200 €