MAZDA'S new MX-5 Roadster Coup has gone on sale in the UK with a six-model range priced from £18,210 on-the-road.

The Japanese car maker says the car possesses the world's fastest retractable hard-top, operating in only 12 seconds top-up or top-down and there is no impact on the 150-litre boot space when the roof is down.

In the UK, Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coup customers have a choice of three powertrains (1.8-litre or 2.0-litre with five-speed gearbox, 2.0-litre Sport with six-speed gearbox), and a range of individual options and accessories to personalise their car.

The prices, starting from £18,210, represent a premium of £1,200 over the soft-top model, as both climate control air conditioning and the option pack are standard on the 1.8i and 2.0i Roadster Coup models.

Mark Cameron, marketing director of Mazda Motors UK, said: "Global demand for the new Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coup is already very strong, so availability is going to be a little bit restricted this year.

"We have several hundred cars destined for the UK, but to be sure of obtaining the model they desire, customers should visit their nearest Mazda showroom and reserve their vehicle soon to avoid the possible disappointment of having to wait until 2007." The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coup has been available to order since July.