TOKYO, Japan – Mazda Motor Corporation proudly announced that the Mazda Roadster, globally recognized as the MX-5, has been honored with the prestigious Japan Car of the Year award for 2005-2006. This accolade was bestowed upon the iconic lightweight, open-top sports car following a rigorous final ballot, marking its significant impact since its launch in Japan in August 2005.
Vehicles launched in the Japanese market between November 1st of the preceding year and October 31st of the current year, achieving sales volumes exceeding 500 units, are eligible for the coveted Japan Car of the Year award. The selection process involves an initial nomination round to identify ten finalists, from which the most exceptional vehicle of the year is chosen for the ultimate title. This year, the Mazda Roadster stood out, capturing the judges’ attention and the hearts of automotive enthusiasts.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Mazda, representing their first Japan Car of the Year win in 23 years, since the Capella sedan in 1982. In recent years, Mazda has also received special recognition, with the RX-8 sports car earning the “Most Fun” special prize in 2003-2004 and the Mazda Verisa being named “Best Value” in 2004-2005. The 2006 Mazda Roadster’s triumph underscores Mazda’s commitment to innovation and driving pleasure.
The all-new Roadster embodies a “Lots of Fun” product concept, delivering an exhilarating sense of driving freedom in a two-seater package. Its design blends modern aesthetics with an inviting appeal, perfectly complementing the sheer joy of open-air driving. As a lightweight sports car, the Mazda Roadster not only offers thrilling performance but also adheres to the latest environmental and safety standards.
The Roadster model lineup caters to diverse preferences. The RS model is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, striking 17-inch aluminum wheels, and high-performance Bilstein dampers as standard. The VS model offers a touch of luxury with a tan-colored leather interior and the choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The standard Roadster model provides versatility with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The base model pricing for the Mazda Roadster starts at 2.2 million yen, inclusive of tax, making it an accessible dream car for many.
For a comprehensive overview of the award-winning Mazda Roadster, further details are available on the official Mazda Motor Corporation website at https://www.mazda.com/product/mx-5/. This accolade solidifies the Mazda Roadster’s position as a benchmark in the sports car segment and celebrates Mazda’s dedication to creating vehicles that truly embody driving enjoyment.
