The ever-popular Mazda MX-5 range has grown in the UK with the launch of the new Kizuna variant, capped at just 250 units and set to land in dealerships in May. It serves as the first special edition version of the MX-5 that’s been offered in the UK since the MX-5 Sport Venture of 2021.
Mazda will paint 170 examples of the MX-5 Kizuna in Machine Grey while the remaining 80 cars will be painted in Deep Crystal Bue. The Kizuna also comes exclusively with a blue fabric roof to make it easily distinguishable from the other 9 versions of the MX-5 that Mazda sells in the UK.
The special touches made to the MX-5 Kizuna continue into the cabin where it comes equipped with Light Stone Nappa leather upholstery. A set of 16-inch bright alloy wheels complete the look.
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While the Mazda MX-5 is sold in the UK with the choice of either a 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder with 130 hp and 112 lb-ft (152 Nm) of torque, as well as a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a more impressive 181 hp, the Kizuna is only offered with the 1.5-liter engine.
A handful of changes have been made to the rest of the MX-5 family for the 2023 model year. For example, the 1.5-liter Roadster version is now offered in Prime-Line and Exclusive-Line grades while the 2.0-liter Roadster comes in Exclusive-Line and Homura grades. Like the standard model, the MX-5 Fastback RF models are also offered with the 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. Those with the 2.0-liter can be optioned with an automatic transmission.
Elsewhere for 2023, the MX-5 can be optioned with a Zircon Sand paint color and red front brake calipers sourced from Brembo.
“When it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has already established itself as a benchmark sports car, and with the 2023 Mazda MX-5, and now the Kizuna, we continue to offer one of the most exciting and satisfying to drive cars money can buy,” Mazda Motors UK managing director Jeremy Thomson said. “The MX-5 is Mazda’s brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products, its fun to drive character has strengthened the bond between Mazda and its customers for over 30 years and the 2023 model continues this unswerving dedication to delivering an affordable world-class sports car, while the Kizuna continues our long heritage of offering uniquely styled limited edition versions.”