The Mazda MX-5 is already quite a pure, enthusiast-focused vehicle. For 2021, it’s getting an even more enthusiast-focused model.
The new range-topping GT RS, available in both soft-top roadster and RF bodies, is an Australian-specific model with a series of enhancements under the skin.
It goes on sale in January 2021 alongside the rest of the updated MX-5 range.
The GT RS uses Bilstein gas-pressurised dampers for better performance on the track, while under the bonnet there’s a solid alloy strut tower brace linking the front struts.
There are four-piston Brembo brakes on the front wheels with aluminium calipers with 280mm x 22mm ventilated discs. Mazda claims the Brembo front brake upgrade reduces unsprung mass by 2kg.
Other changes include 17-inch forged alloy wheels designed by BBS, wrapped in 205/45/R17 Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres, as well as black mirror caps. It’s available only with the larger of the MX-5’s two engines, a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder.
It’s also exclusively available with a six-speed manual transmission.
The whole MX-5 range gets wireless Apple CarPlay to the 7.0-inch touchscreen MZD Connect Display infotainment system.
The RF GT Black Roof is now available with Pure White nappa leather upholstery, while Deep Crystal Blue paint joins the range of exterior colours. Black mirror caps have been added to the 1.5-litre Roadster and 2.0-litre RF.
Pricing
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Roadster 1.5: $36,090
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Roadster 1.5 automatic: $38,090
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0: $41,400
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 automatic: $43,400
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Roadster GT 2.0: $44,020
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Roadster GT 2.0 automatic: $46,020
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Roadster GT RS 2.0: $47,020
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF GT 2.0: $48,100
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF GT Black Roof 2.0: $49,120
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF GT 2.0 automatic: $50,100
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF GT RS 2.0: $51,100
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 RF GT Black Roof 2.0 automatic: $51,120
All prices exclude on-road costs.
Engines
Power in the base Mazda MX-5 comes from a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 97kW of power and 152Nm of torque.
The larger engine option is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder option, with 135kW of power and 205Nm of torque.
The MX-5 is rear-wheel drive as standard, and there’s a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Fuel Economy
The smaller engine in the 2021 Mazda MX-5 uses a claimed 6.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
The more powerful 2.0-litre engine uses a claimed 6.8L/100km in the soft top, and 7.2L/100km in the RF hardtop.
Dimensions
The 2021 Mazda MX-5 measures 3915mm long, 1235mm tall and 1735mm wide, with a 2310mm wheelbase. Boot space is 130L.
Servicing
CarExpert has contacted Mazda to confirm servicing costs for the 2021 Mazda MX-5.
It’s backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Safety
The 2021 Mazda MX-5 has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, based on testing carried out in 2016. It scored 35.20 out of 37 in testing.
It has low-speed autonomous emergency braking both forward and in reverse, along with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and traffic sign recognition.
It also has front and side airbags for both occupants.
Standard Equipment
The base MX-5 comes standard with the following features:
- 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and satellite navigation
- DAB+ digital radio
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Automatic LED headlights
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Climate control air-conditioning
- Cruise control
- Cloth upholstery
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Reversing camera
- Keyless start
The GT adds:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- LED daytime running lights
- Automatic high beam
- Heated front seats
- Leather upholstery
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
- Proximity entry
The GT RS adds:
- 17-inch BBS alloy wheels
- Four-piston Brembo front brakes
- Bilstein gas-pressurised dampers
