Mazda Miata RS is Another Forbidden Fruit Only for Japan
Japan is getting a high-performance Mazda Miata RS model and for once, the U.S. might not have to be jealous.
That’s because the Mazda Miata RS is still powered by the smaller, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 129 horsepower, compared to the 2.0-liter four-cylinder mill the U.S. market gets with 155 hp. And the extra parts that make the Miata RS so special can mostly be found on the Miata Club model offered in the U.S. So essentially, what the Japanese market gets is a Crystal White Pearl Mica Miata outfitted with Bilstein shocks, a front strut tower brace, an “induction sound enhancer,” larger disc brakes and Recaro seats featuring Nappa Leather and faux suede.
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While the suspension pieces can be found on the Miata Club, the Japan Miata RS doesn’t benefit from the Brembo brakes the U.S. gets on the Club model. In exchange, U.S. shoppers don’t get to enjoy the stylish Recaro seats.
Based on current exchange rates, the Mazda Miata RS is priced around $26,900, so it’s slightly cheaper than the Mazda Miata Club that starts from $29,420 including destination.
Discuss this story on our Mazda MX-5 Miata Forum
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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