Mazda MX-5 and Mazda2 Sport Black Editions

The 275-horsepower Mazda MX-5 GT racecar, which competes in the 2011 Britcar Production GTN Championship, has inspired the Japanese firm's UK division to develop a pair of limited edition models based on the MX-5 and the Mazda2 for the local market.

The word "inspired" should be taken very loosely as the Sport Black Editions of the two Mazda models do not feature any performance upgrades and are all about bespoke color choices and additional standard features.

Starting with the MX-5 Sport Black, the special edition model is distinguished on the outside by a Brilliant Black powered retractable hard-top and dark ‘gun metal’ 17-inch alloy wheels, while buyers can choose from three contrasting bodywork hues - Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent and Velocity Red mica.

Inside, the roadster model features a black leather interior with contrasting ‘sand’ color stitching, Piano Black steering wheel and deco panel, a uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

The MX-5 Sport Black is based on the Sport Tech model with the 160HP 2.0-litre engine linked to a six-speed manual transmission.

Mazda said it plans to produce only 500 examples of the limited edition MX-5, each priced at £22,995 (OTR), or £360 more than the Sport Tech model on which it is based.

Moving on to the limited edition Mazda2 Black, the five-door hatchback is available with the same two-tone color choices as the roadster (a black vinyl roof and Spirited Green metallic, Crystal White Pearlescent or True Red for the body), and also features matt black 16-inch alloy wheels.

Other highlights include the standard front fog lights, privacy glass and a rear bumper in sports trim, plus unique ‘Black Edition’ exterior badging, uniquely numbered interior plaque and Limited Edition floor mats.

Power comes from a 1.3-liter engine with 84-horses.

Production of the Mazda2 Black is limited to 618 units, with prices starting at £12,395 (OTR) for the True Red version and £12,815 for the other metallic and pearlescent colors.