Mazda in the black with track-inspired MX-5
Japanese carmaker aims to inject fresh life into the venerable MX-5 and 2 hatchback via black-themed limited-edition models aimed at the UK marketMercedes-Benz and Porsche already churn out basic-black (at least in name) special editions of some of their models – dubbed Black Series and Black Edition respectively – but now Mazda is getting in on the noir theme via ‘Black Limited Edition’ variants of the MX-5 and 2 hatchback, aimed solely at the UK market.
The MX-5 Sport Black was inspired by the MX-5 GT race car that competes in the Britcar Production GTN Championship, and just 500 examples will be offered for sale.
The MX-5 GT racer ekes out 205kW and weighs just 850kg – enabling it to harass more powerful Lotus, BMW and Ferrari rivals – but the Black Limited Edition retains the same hardware as the standard road car, with the makeover being restricted to cosmetics.
Although it will be available in Velocity Red, Spirited Green or Crystal white, the limited-run roadster lives up to its moniker via a ‘Brilliant Black’ retractable hard-top and dark gunmetal 17-inch alloys.
Inside, it scores black leather interior with contrasting sand coloured stitching and piano-black trim on the steering wheel spokes and dashboard. Befitting its status, it gets the mandatory ‘Black Limited Edition’ badges on the bodywork, along with a uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.
Standard kit includes climate control air-conditioning, a premium Bose audio system, an integrated hands-free Bluetooth system, cruise control and front fog lights. Mazda claims the powered retractable roof, which goes up or down in 12 seconds, is still the fastest of its type, despite the advent of newer folding hardtop-equipped convertibles.
Meanwhile, those on a tighter budget are catered to via the Mazda2 Black, of which 618 examples will be flogged, each with a black vinyl roof, privacy glass, front fog lights and 16-inch matt black alloy wheels.
As per the MX-5 Black, it will be offered in red, green and white, with power coming from a 62kW 1.3-litre engine.
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