Is Mazda bringing back a removable hardtop as an accessory for the MX-5? It sure looks like it with a tease of what the automaker has in store for the Tokyo Auto Salon 2019 and Osaka Auto Messe 2019.

Confirmed to appear at both aftermarket-centric shows is the “Mazda MX-5 Drop-Head Coupe Concept.” Admittedly, Mazda has liberally used the term “drop-head” on this occasion since the MX-5 in question didn’t sprout a second row of seats (drop-head coupes are typically two doors with four seats, a cloth top, and a sloping rear roof line).

Having said that, Mazda may now be open to offering a removable hardtop outside of the track-only MX-5 Global Cup racecar. Before the announcement of the Drop-Head Coupe Concept, the only way to get a detachable roof for the MX-5 is either with the purchase of an RF variant or a Global Cup racecar. Plus, the USD 4,420 (~ P 234,000) matte black top is only there strictly so that Global Cup racers can compete in a wider range of motorsports activities that require a fixed roof.


Now though, Mazda may soon offer a removable hardtop that’s more suitable for everyday driving. Aside from offering all-weather protection, the top is made of carbon and is said to enhance the roadster’s rigidity. This should make it perfect for weekend racers.

For Tokyo Auto Salon and Osaka Auto Messe, Mazda is showing off the new detachable hardtop on a 2019 MX-5 kitted with other accessories such as forged 16-inch RAYS wheels and wheel nut set, reinforced bushings, lighter flywheel, free flowing air filter, and LSD. It will also have a revised decoration panel, center console lid, parking brake/shift boots, and aluminum pedals straight from the Mazda accessories catalog.