We kidded about Mazda bringing the next generation 2016 MX-5 to the New York Auto Show on April 1, and in some sense, it did, as the Japanese firm showed the car’s completed transmission and suspension systems. The other big news for the MX-5 in New York is the presentation of a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the current model, with only 100 cars slated for sale in the States.
Available for order later this spring, the 2015 MX-5 25th Anniversary Edition’s key gains a handful of mechanical and cosmetic upgrades, beginning with a fine-tune of the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated unit that gains new components such as pistons, connecting rods and flywheel.
Mazda claims that its engineers selected “the best balanced premium parts for inclusion in the engine” and as a result, the inline four now “revs even more freely, delivering an extraordinary response, precision acceleration and a deeply satisfying engine note”.
Buyers can choose from an automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox, the latter also featuring Bilstein dampers.
It is offered exclusively in a Soul Red Metallic coat with contrasting black Brilliant Black A-pillars, windshield surround, outside mirrors and Power-Retractable Hard Top (PRHT), and rides on 17-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE05A 205/45R17-84W tires.
On the inside, you get standard Almond leather seats and door trim, a liquid metal-like satin chrome finish on louver rings, gauge cluster meter rings and inner door handles, special badges and Piano Black trimmings.
By John Halas
PHOTO GALLERY
