New Mazda GT is unique to NZ
The new limitededition MX-5 GT model gets a beautifully judged package of mechanical upgrades, writes David Linklater.
Mazda has kept the MX-5 a sales and critical success over nearly three decades by sticking to the ‘‘just so’’ ethos.
By which I mean the Japanese maker has always understood that it should never overdo anything on its classic-style sports car. The MX5 has never had too much power, never had too much grip, never become too large or heavy. When it has been in danger of getting a little bloated (generation three), it’s been trimmed down and sharpened up (current generation four).
When trying to describe this philosophy Mazda people often go off on tangents and start talking about horses and riders. But trust me, it’s all about keeping everything just-so.
So when it comes to special editions and modifications, Mazda treads carefully. There have been plenty, of course, but they’re usually more about colour and trim than too much in the way of meaningful mechanical modification to a car that it has ensured is just-so to begin with.
Case in point: when Mazda designed the new Retractable Fastback (RF) version of the MX-5, the company test drivers and engineers decided that the hardtop made the car too rigid compared with the soft-top. Bit of body flex makes the car more communicative, apparently. So they hollowed out an extra section in the chassis to make the RF a bit more wobbly; a bit more authentic. Brilliant.
But marketing needs must and the factory does offer a grab-bag of extra stuff to make the MX-5 a bit more macho.
That’s where the new GT model comes in. It’s a limited-edition model being offered by Mazda New Zealand that adds a strut tower brace under the bonnet, Bilstein shock absorbers, BBS 17-inch wheels and Brembo brakes. It’s available only with the six-speed manual transmission. The GT has a black roof and door mirrors, while inside there are Recaro seats in black leather and suede.
It’s factory-approved (and fitted) stuff, although the GT as we get it here is also unique to Kiwiland. It’s been specified by Mazda NZ and although you’ll find the same bits in other combinations on other MX-5 special-editions around the world, there’s nothing that exactly matches this one.
In Retractable Fastback (RF) form as tested, the GT costs $57,295 - a $5100 premium over a standard RF Limited with the extra-cost Soul Red paint, which you have to include for comparison purposes because the GT only comes in that hue. Always with the red, Mazda.
There’s also a GT roadster for $52,295, if you prefer your classicstyle sports car with a classic-style soft-top.
As you’d expect, it’s a nicely judged package of upgrades. One really aimed at the enthusiast driver who’s keen on throwing the little Mazda around a little more. Beautifully telegraphed roll-andpitch is a big part of the MX-5’s handling character; it’s always been a car that’s great at feeling like it’s going fast... slowly. The GT takes a little of that compliance away and allows you to drive more aggressively when the mood takes you.
The Bilstein-and-Brembo combination has been offered in North America on a more sparsely equipped model called the MX-5 Club, which was for drivers keen to explore the car’s abilities on smooth, winding roads and the odd track day (hence the name).
No, you don’t get any more power. Mazda has always been reluctant to mess with the kW/ Nm-count, although that has never stopped the aftermarket. But the GT only comes with the larger 2.0-litre powerplant from the MX-5 catalogue, which is nicely tractable and (of course) still naturally
aspirated. So still one for the purists.
Key to the powertrain’s appeal is the six-speed manual gearbox. Again, no different from that in the standard MX-5, but a brilliant asset if you’re keen on exploiting the extra firmness and grip of the upgraded chassis. The stubby gearlever is always right next to your left hand, because you sit so low and the transmission tunnel is relatively high. The shift action is short and incredibly precise. If you think an automatic transmission is just as good as a manual in a driver’s car (and the two-pedal Mazda option on the standard MX5 is actually very good), one go with this and you’ll see the light.
The RF GT in Soul Red with the trick rims and sports seats is all looking a bit flash to be honest. Especially when you start that little bit of street theatre with the folding-hard top, which retracts in three pieces but still leaves you with a coupe-like profile and targastyle opening.
It’s a tribute to the little Mazda’s combination of design and engineering that you can take it upmarket in this way and still be left with a completely credible and hugely entertaining sports car. If this is your kind of thing, the GT is $5k well-spent on making your MX-5 a bit special.
But all irrelevant of course, because the best Mazda MX-5 is still the soft-top with the smallest 1.5-litre engine and manual gearbox. It’s that kind of car.