Mazda MX-5 RF Launch Edition unveiled

Mazda has taken a page out of Ferrari’s book, confirming it will decide the first buyers of the new MX-5 RF internationally – however, it won’t be the same case in Australia.

The Japanese manufacturer has revealed a special Launch Edition version of the MX-5 ‘Retractable Fastback’ that will be limited to 1000 units globally.

Each is painted Machine Grey with a black roof panel – the same combination as the car that debuted at the New York motor show. Launch edition models also come with a number Tourneau watch.

Mazda Australia spokeswoman Karla Leach confirmed there was no such plan for the Launch Edition in Australia, simply because the market demographic is different to that in North America, where most variants had been concentrated.

“We have no plans for it in Australia,” Leach said.

Instead, Mazda’s plan for the Australian market is to roll-out the production model RF in the first quarter of 2017. Exact price and specification is yet to be confirmed.

Mazda’s international strategy to reward customer loyalty isn’t without precedent. Exotic car-makers such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche regularly employ the same formula, notifying their most loyal customers of an upcoming vehicle and giving them first dibs if they so wish.

Mazda Australia stakeholders confirmed earlier this year they will only take the 2.0-litre version of the RF and not offer the 1.5-litre variant available internationally. The decision was based on range complexity and pricing structure.

In 2.0-litre guise the RF is expected to produce identical outputs to the soft top: 118kW and 200Nm.

It will be sold in both base and GT specifications with the choice of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

Pricing is expected to sit around $40,000 for the entry-level model and close to $45,000 for the GT.