The Mazda MX-5 Thread

Mazda announces pricing for 100th Anniversary special editions

Japanese marque's retro-inspired commemorative trim option is available on all key models

Mazda is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2020 with a new special-edition version of the key models in its line-up, inspired by the firm’s first production car.

Prices for the special editions range from £20,995 for the 2 supermini to £33,995 for the 6 saloon. Just five commemorative examples each of the 2, 6 and CX-5 are bound for the UK, alongside 100 specially configured versions of the MX-5, CX-30 and 3.

The 100th Anniversary cars are painted in a pearlescent shade of white, which is contrasted by burgundy leather seats and carpets inside. The colour scheme is similar to that used for top-end variants of the R360 microcar, the commercial success of which helped to establish Mazda as a competitive mainstream manufacturer following its launch in 1960.

Additional bespoke touches for the special edition include 100th Anniversary badging on the floor mats, key fob, wheel centres, side skirts and head restaints.


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Mazda MX-5 1.5 R-Sport 2020 UK review

Should I buy one?

Given the R-Sport does little to mess with the MX-5’s well-established recipe, and it commands only a small premium over the series-production car, it’s the obvious choice while Mazda has any left to sell.

Unlike the larger 2.0-litre, which is approaching modern hot hatch pace with its recent performance hike, the smaller-capacity engine can be used to its fullest at almost every opportunity, while still being quick enough to prove entertaining.

Handling remains among the best you’ll find in any sub-£30k car, even if it lacks some of the 2.0’s focus, so it should be the first choice for anyone more interested in roof-down B-road jaunts than shaving off tenths at an occasional track day.


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Nearly new buying guide: Mazda MX-5

We’ve said it before and we'll say it again - there's nothing quite like an MX-5

Usually, if you want to do something fun in life, it’s going to cost you. The current, Mk4 Mazda MX-5 (known as the ND) proves this need not be the case, as an entertaining little sports car that can now be bought for as little as £12,000.

The engine range starts with a 129bhp 1.5-litre four-pot. This sounds modest, but you can still enjoy brisk acceleration with it, since the MX-5 weighs comfortably less than a tonne. Then there’s a 2.0-litre unit that was initially offered with 158bhp before being uprated to 181bhp in mid-2018.

There are countless special editions of the MX-5, but we’re focusing on the main models here. The entry-level SE gets 16in alloys, LED headlights, air conditioning, a basic sound system with an aux input and a single detachable cupholder.

Move up to SE L Nav and you get a second cupholder for your passenger (or a thirsty driver), along with heated seats, cruise control, climate control and a 7.0in infotainment screen with a DAB radio and Bluetooth for your phone. If you go for the 2.0-litre engine, a limited-slip rear differential is included along with larger (17in) wheels.

Sport Nav gets you firmer sports suspension with Bilstein dampers, automatic lights and wipers, leather seats, a Bose stereo, rear parking sensors and lane departure warning.


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