Mazda Spirit Racing, the exciting successor to Mazdaspeed, is gearing up to hit showrooms near you soon

At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, Mazda really shook things up, hinting at a comeback of the rotary engine for their sports cars. But that's not all – they also showcased two concept cars under the Mazda Spirit Racing banner, and guess what? These concepts, based on the Mazda 3 Liftback and the Mazda MX-5 Miata, are not just for show – they're actually going into production!

The two models, named the Mazda Spirit Racing RS and Mazda Spirit Racing 3, are like pumped-up versions of the MX-5 Miata and Mazda 3 Liftback. They're adding some cool gear still under development, focusing mainly on making them track-ready with improved aerodynamics and suspension systems, based on feedback from their involvement in the Super Taikyu Series races.

 

Now, while both models will get some cosmetic upgrades inside and out, don't expect a power boost. Remember the hints from the MX-5's Program Manager about a special Miata MX-5 variant? Well, these might just be it.

Both concept models sport the Mazda Spirit Racing logo, fancy Rays alloy wheels, and Bridgestone Potenza tires. The Miata gets semi-bucket Recaro seats, complete with racing safety belts, and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with a top marker. The exterior has got some flashy stickers, a larger exhaust tip, Brembo brakes, and black finishing logos.

The Mazda 3 isn't left out – it's kitted with a big front splitter, new side skirts, and a carbon fiber spoiler. It too gets a larger exhaust tip, black Mazda logos, Brembo brakes, and is slightly lowered with race shock absorbers. Inside, it's all about the Recaro seats, red stitching on the fabric, and Alcantara trim.

Just like the Lexus LBX Morizo, we're really crossing our fingers hoping these Mazda Spirit Racing beauties make it from concept to production – they sound like they'd be a blast to drive! 

But, if these cars sound like overkill to you and you're intrigued by the regular versions of the Mazda 3 Liftback and the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Mazda Malaysia has you covered!

The Mazda 3 Liftback is available for sale in Malaysia. It's recognized for its efficiency, build quality, handling, and value for money. The latest models of the Mazda 3 Liftback was launched in Malaysia at the tail end of last year, offering a blend of performance and elegance in both hatchback and sedan versions.

Priced from RM166,059, Mazda Malaysia has striked out the 1.5-litre versions of the vehicle and now only offers it solely in a 2.0-litre guise. 

There's no current information indicating the availability of the Mazda MX-5 in Mazda Malaysia's website for 2024. For the most up-to-date details on these models, it's best to check with local Mazda dealerships or official Mazda Malaysia helpline.

The fourth generation of this iconic roadster, known as the ND, has been available in Malaysia since 2015, and it has seen several updates over the years. The most recent versions of the Mazda MX-5 in Malaysia, including the RF (Retractable Fastback) variant, have been brought in as Completely Built Units (CBU) from Japan. These models come with a 2.0-litre engine and was offered both in manual and automatic transmission options.

Also Read: Mazda Malaysia to introduce the highly anticipated CX-60 this year