Mazda to Release Upgraded MX-5 in July

Tokyo, June 7 (Jiji Press)--Mazda Motor Corp. <7261> said Thursday that it will release an upgraded version of its Roadster lightweight sports car on July 26. The Japanese automaker enhanced engine performance on the new Roadster, sold as the MX-5 overseas. The vehicle will have advanced safety functions, including automatic brakes to avoid pedestrians and other objects, as standard equipment. With the improvements on the Roadster, all seven Mazda passenger car models available in Japan will be classified as having the highest performance in the Safety Support Car S bracket, recommended by the government to prevent accidents by elderly drivers. The new Roadster will have improved fuel economy, as well as boosted response for acceleration, according to Mazda. Mazda will offer a type equipped with a 1,500 cc engine and a fabric roof, which can be opened and closed manually, as well as a type with a 2,000 cc engine and an electrically retracting metal roof. Prices will be set between 2,554,200 yen and 3,812,400 yen. The company aims for monthly sales of 500 units. END