Limited-edition Mazda MX-5 RF Sport Black announced

Mazda will extend its long tradition of special-edition MX-5s with the forthcoming RF Sport Black model. Just 300 will be produced, priced at £25,695 each.

Only a few months back Mazda revealed the MX-5 Z-Sport special edition, which is based on the fabric-top MX-5. Now the MX-5 RF, with its folding hard-top, is getting its turn. The Sport Black is purely a visual exercise, with no mechanical changes, and commands a £1900 premium over the 2-litre SE-L Nav model upon which it is based.

> Mazda MX-5 RF

Outside, a combination of Eternal Blue Mica paint, black trim (including the rear spoiler and door mirrors) and gunmetal alloy wheels lend the Sport Black some exclusivity, as do bespoke floor mats, scuff plates and Sport Black badging inside the cabin.

Under the bonnet you’ll find the familiar naturally aspirated 2-litre in-line four-cylinder engine, still rated at 158bhp with 148lb ft of torque. That’s enough to launch the Mazda MX-5 RF Sport Black from 0 to 62mph in 7.3 seconds and take it on to a 133mph top speed. Drive makes its way to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip differential.

Standard kit is identical to the SE-L Nav, so you get satellite navigation, as that name suggests, plus leather seats, rain-sensing front wipers, rear parking sensors and automatic headlights. Order books for the Sport Black open on 28 May 2018.