Upgrade? In some respects I guess. The 'stock' R-model brace is adjustable, but it was comparably heavy, being made out of steel components. Not sure how much difference it makes, but it also focused compression/tension forces at one relatively narrow point against the two-bolt half-brackets. In contrast, the "MAZDASPEED" bar s NOT adjustable. But it was made out of aluminum and lighter. It also transferred compression/tension forces more broadly against a full ring bracket.

 

From what I understand, in general Mazdaspeed parts are geared toward performance than the pars that came stock on the car.
If the bar is more rigid, lighter weight, and spreads the load more evenly, it's an upgrade in my book.

 

The MS bar also provides a couple mm's of additional clearance over the stock bar. This could be important trivia if you happen to be a dumbass and forget to mill motor mount arms down after installing a pan brace....just saying.