British International Motor Show - Mazda

How long have you got?
If there was a prize for the most attractions on a single stand at this year's Motor Show, Mazda would be in with a big shout.

Not only are there a host of upcoming production models and concept cars to see for the first time on British soil, a racetrack has also been built on the dockside to test the driving prowess of visitors.

So what's the biggest attraction?
Without doubt, it's the new folding hard-top version of the latest Mazda MX-5, known as the Roadster Coupe. With metal-roofed drop-tops proving so popular, it was pretty much inevitable, but some fans were worried that the extra weight might ruin the poise and balance of a great sports car.

We haven't driven it, so we can't give a definitive answer. However, a recent poll on whatcar.com indicated that 55% of readers would go for the hard-top, given the choice - and we do know that the roof does fold down very quickly. So, the demand is there, and it certainly looks the part, but will it live up to expectation? Only time will tell.

Check out the car on the stand by choosing one of the video links below.

• Mazda on Windows Media
• Mazda on RealOne Player

What else is there to see?
Mazda's new BT-50 one-ton pick-up truck has landed in Europe for the first time (it's going on sale in the UK this winter), while the subtle-looking 247bhp Mazda 3MPS hot hatch is a first for the UK. The Sassou and Kabura concept vehicles are also worth a look.

Thousands of visitors will also be given the chance to test their mettle, and Mazda's metal, on a purpose-built dockside track. After one practice lap, visitors will drive a timed lap in both the new Mazda MX-5 roadster and the racy RX-8 PZ special edition.

Participants in this cost-free attraction will be judged on style as well as time, and the winner will become the proud owner of an MX-5 2.0 Sport for a year.