Geneva debut for Mazda MX-5 20th Anniversary Edition
Mazda conjures up a special edition MX-5 as the popular roadster notches up its 20th birthdayIn addition to whipping the covers off its new new 5 MPV and facelifted 6 at the Geneva show, Mazda will also use the Swiss expo to reveal a 20th Anniversary Edition of the evergreen MX-5 roadster.
Also being showcased at Geneva is Mazda's SKY Concept eco-friendly powertrains that allegedly cut fuel consumption by 15-20 per cent.
The 20th Anniversary Edition MX-5 will be limited to 2000 units, but the bad news for Aussie Miata enthusiasts is that they're all destined for the European market.
Based on the 1.8-litre SE soft-top roadster, the limited-run model gains a chromed grille surround, door handles and headlight fascia, along with silver-look fog lamp surrounds, unique 17-inch alloy wheels and 20th Anniversary logos.
In addition, each example comes with a stainless-steel scuff plate emblazoned with the car's serial number (from 1 to 2000).
The 20th Anniversary MX-5 can be had in three colours -- True Red, Crystal White Pearl and, specific for this edition, a new Aurora Blue -- with matching-colour elements in the interior.
It's not just about cosmetics, as Mazda's boffins have also slotted in a front suspension brace bar to boost rigidity and thereby improve the car's dynamics. It all adds up to a reasonably appetising formula, so it's a shame we won't be getting the limited-edition roadster here.
However, what we will get is the new SKY-G petrol and SKY-D diesel engines -- and the Mazda SKY-Drive automatic transmission -- which are set for global rollout beginning in 2011.
Mazda says the new powertrains pave the way for the company's published target of improving fuel economy by 30 per cent by 2015.
The SKY-G petrol engine is claimed to use 15 per cent less fuel than the previous 2.0-litre unit, putting it on par with today's 2.2-litre diesel. Meanwhile the SKY-D diesel engine is claimed to be 20 per cent more frugal than the current 2.2-litre oiler.
The new automatic transmission also cuts fuel consumption by 5 per cent, says Mazda, and it's claimed to offer shifting feel similar to a dual-clutch transmission.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at www.carsales.mobi
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
