Renault roadster

The Mazda MX-5 has had the roadster market to itself for too long – and Renault is racing to get a slice of the drop-top action!

Last year, in Issue 931, we uncovered the French brand’s intention to produce a two-seat convertible. And we can now confirm that the project is gaining pace. The car was originally destined for production in 2010, but sources close to Renault have revealed it has been given the go-ahead – and will be ready a year early.

Since the Toyota MR2 Roadster was discontinued last summer, after 22 years in production, the MX-5 has had no direct competitor. But that’s about to change, as bosses are ready to introduce a unique model to spearhead the Renaultsport range. Set to continue the styling themes of the Wind concept – which was revealed for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in 2004 – the new model will be far more refined than Renault’s previous offering in the roadster market.

That car, the Sport Spider, was pro­duced between 1996 and 1999 as a hardcore track day machine. Its successor will be less extreme to give it broader appeal. It’s not yet known if the new two-seater will have a fabric or folding metal roof; Mazda’s MX-5 is available with a choice of both.

However, there will a wide engine line-up to cater for a range of buyers, from budget-conscious motorists to those who demand sizzling performance. Entry-level variants are likely to be equipped with small, four-cylinder powerplants, while top-of-the-range cars will come with the Renaultsport Clio 197’s high-revving 2.0-litre unit.