It's an irony that will be lost on few genuine fans of British cars. In the week that the now Chinese-owned MG TF roadster returned to production in Longbridge, Birmingham, Mazda has announced a special edition of the MX-5, for a long time considered the exotic, Japanese-built alternative to the MG, specially designed "to appeal to British drivers".Available with a choice of 1.8- or 2.0-litre engines, the MX-5 "Icon" limited editions are being billed as high-spec luxury versions of Mazda's long-running roadster, and only 1250 will be produced for the UK, each in "a patriotic choice of red, white or blue paint". The five-speed 1.8-litre models will be made available in greater numbers; 875 of them will be sold, each for £16,825 – a £1175 premium over a standard 1.8. However, it'll come with £1500-worth of additional equipment, such as climate control, exterior chrome detailing and an Icon-branded black leather interior, thrown in. Only 375 examples of the £17,825, 2.0-litre MX-5 Icon will reach UK showrooms. However, the 2.0-litre is actually the bigger bargain, since it gets the same generous additional specification for only a £375 premium.
Add your comment