Japan’s Enthusiast Droptop Is Getting a Rare and Eye-Catching UpliftGear PatrolgvandykeUpdatedWed, September 23, 2026 at 7:28 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleMazda has announced a new version of its Japanese MX-5 that delivers exclusivity, vibrant visuals and VIP treatment.Just a few months ago, Mazda announced a refined driver-focused JDM overhaul of the Roadster (MX-5) called the PS, or 'Pure Sport'.It made for a tempting release outside of Japan. Beneath the new Zinc Green Metallic paint, it featured some meaningful suspension and braking upgrades.All the same, Mazda has already managed to outdo the effort. There's a desirable new MX-5 headed for the Japanese market, limited to a mere six-car run.Mazda's Roadster FSW Ver.2 breaks with the largely restrained color palette of the ND. - Credit: Mazda JapanA sunny limited-run specialIt's called the Roadster FSW Ver.2, and it's the product of four Mazda dealerships across Japan: Kanto, Shizuoka, Tokai and Koshin.AdvertisementAdvertisementAs part of the designation, the droptop benefits from a special Sunflower Yellow paint job. It's a hue unlike anything that we've seen thus far on the ND. (I daresay it looks even better than the Sunrise shade of Subaru's Series.Yellow.)The vibrant yellow shade will appear on just six cars in Japan. - Credit: Mazda JapanColor comparison aside, the FSW Ver.2 designation does deliver more than just a fancy new paint option. It's handled by Mazda E&T, a company subsidiary typically responsible for custom, concept and low-volume specials.What's more, the treatment features factory aero parts around the outside along with matching yellow interior accents and some contrasting black ornamentation.Mazda is also giving the car yellow interior accents and a matching key. If selected, buyers also get an overnight tour with visits to a variety of Mazda's Hiroshima facilities. - Credit: Mazda JapanUnder the hood, the powertrain does stay the same. As such, the Japanese-spec ~130-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder remains.AdvertisementAdvertisementStill, Mazda has managed to further sweeten the deal. If selected, buyers will also have the opportunity to take a 2-day, 1-night Hiroshima tour. The experience will include a visit to the Mazda Motor Corporation Headquarters Showroom, the Mazda Museum and the Mazda E&T Factory.Mazda is adding a green to the ND for the first time. Maybe more colors are soon to follow? - Credit: MazdaAvailability and pricingAll six examples of the Roadster FSW Ver.2 will be offered exclusively through a lottery sale held at Mazda Fan Festa 2026 at Fuji Speedway in Japan. While that makes it forbidden fruit for many buyers, hopefully it's an indication the automaker is willing to be more liberal with its paint choices.About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.