Mazda shows off limited edition MX-5

Here’s proof that old-school simple motoring isn’t on its way out. Mazda has released a new edition of the fabled MX-5 roadster, basing it on the highly successful MX-5 GT race car.

The new MX-5 Sport Black, as it’s called, comes with a black vinyl roof, privacy glass and matte black alloy wheels.

Although the race car version weighs just 850kg, its handling characteristics still make it into the 1,100kg road model. The Mazda MX-5 Sport Black is also distinguished by unique paint and a more generous equipment list, including gun metal 17in wheels, leather interior, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, and unique badging.

It also comes with a Bose audio system, Bluetooth, cruise control and fog lights, while its powered retractable roof goes up or down in 12 seconds. The performance remains the same though, courtesy of the 167bhp 2.0-litre engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Obviously this limited edition MX-5 won’t be making it to our region. In fact, we were at the dealership the other day and they informed us, rather shamefully, that you can’t even buy a manual MX-5 in the UAE anymore; your only choice is a slush-box. Turns out we were wrong: old-school simple motoring is on its way out.