Inspired by the highly successful 275bhp Mazda MX-5 GT race car competing in the 2011 Britcar Production GTN Championship, Mazda has introduced two new ‘Black Limited Edition’ models – a Mazda MX-5 Sport Black and a Mazda2 Black – bringing a darker edge to Mazda’s model range. The success of the 850kg MX-5 GT race car is that is retains the same characteristics that make the road-going Mazda MX-5 a great handling, nimble and fun-to-drive roadster.  In its first year of racing the MX-5 GT has achieved two podiums and is currently third in class. The MX-5 GT race car continues to challenge convention, taking on the more powerful established race cars from Lotus, BMW and Ferrari. The success of this year’s MX-5 race programme and the popularity of MX-5 GT has lead to the track-inspired ‘Black Limited Edition’ Mazda MX-5 and Mazda2. Available from mid-July, the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black is distinguished by unique paint finishes and an enhanced specification, offering more for a lower price than the car it’s based on.  Externally the car is highlighted by a Brilliant Black powered retractable hard-top, this is in contrast with the choice of bodywork colours – Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and Velocity Red mica – but compliments the dark ‘gun metal’ 17-inch alloy wheels.

The model also comes with black leather interior with contrasting ‘sand’ colour stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique ‘Black Limited Edition’ exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

The MX-5 Sport Black incorporates the generous equipment specification of the Sport Tech model, including climate control air-conditioning, a premium Bose® audio system, an integrated hands-free Bluetooth® system, cruise control and front fog lights.  Owners will also benefit from the world’s fastest folding powered retractable roof, which goes up or down in 12 seconds.

Only 500 examples of the Mazda MX-5 Sport Black will be produced, each costing £22,995 (OTR), just £360 more than the 160ps, 2.0-litre, six-speed transmission Sport Tech model on which it is based.

“Special Edition models of the Mazda MX-5 have always been eagerly received by UK consumers, and the new Sport Black model takes inspiration from the MX-5 GT race car that embodies Mazda’s Defy Convention brand strategy,” comments Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda Motors UK.  “Both the race car and road-going sportscar remain true to their roots, those of driving entertainment, great handling and fun to drive.  The Sport Black model delivers a distinctive and sharper edge to our long-running star performer and as in the Britcar Production GTN Championship, it remains unrivalled as a rewarding sportscar.”

Five-door Mazda2 with attitude
Following the MX-5 Sport Black theme, the new Limited Edition Mazda2 Black five-door is also available in Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and True Red.  Based on the 84ps, 1.3-litre Tamura model, the Mazda2 Black adds a black vinyl roof, matt black 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, privacy glass and a rear bumper sports trim.

Inside, there is the Sports interior with climate control air-conditioning, a Parrot Bluetooth® hands-free system, electric rear windows, plus unique ‘Black Edition’ exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

Inspired again by Mazda’s convention-defying race car, just 618 examples of the Mazda2 Black will be produced, with prices starting at £12,395 (OTR) for the True Red version and £12,815 for the other metallic and pearlescent colours.

The next Britcar race takes place at the Snetterton race circuit from 13-14 August 2011.

• Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe
• Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe
• Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe
• Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe
• Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe
• Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe Mazda MX5 Sport Black Limited Edition Roadster Coupe
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