Friday, 17 June 2016

Mazda MX-5 Icon

Mazda MX-5 ND Icon
The second UK special edition of the ND is actually the fourth MX-5 to be given the Icon name. The original Icon model was released way back in 2000 as a version of Japan's luxury NR-Limited. This Icon introduced some unique features such as Artvin Red Mica paintwork and a beige leather interior.

A few years later, in 2005, a second MX-5 Icon appeared. This time representing a last hurrah to the second generation before the launch of the all new NC. Icon 2 featured the unique Chilli Orange paint colour not seen on any other UK MX-5. Not long after that, in 2007, the third Icon model arrived. Icon 3 was based on the lowest spec NC with additional features such as leather seats to bridge the gap to the higher trim levels.

Now, almost ten years later, MX-5 Icon number 4 has arrived. Like the previous version, the new Icon is based on a lower spec model but adds a few extra features normally found on the higher priced cars. It's another special edition MX-5 that uses a combination of good value, unique cosmetic details, and a limited production run to help it stand out from the others. The red contrast details are reminiscent of the RS Racing concept car.

Underneath the Icon is a 1.5i SE-L Nav model finished in a choice of Crystal White or Meteor Grey mica paints. Additional features over the standard SE-L Nav are the 16" gunmetal alloy wheels from the Sport model, a Soul Red Mazdaspeed front lip spoiler, Soul Red Mazdaspeed rear lip spoiler, Soul Red door mirrors, and exterior graphics. The chequered design side graphics with "Icon" branding were provided by Creative FX having previously worked with promotional MX-5s such as the 20th Anniversary.

Inside there are the black heated leather seats with red stitch taken from the Sport models, and unique "Icon" branded black & red carpet mats. A special edition "Icon" badge has been placed on the centre console, though it is without a number and doesn't show where your car fits in with the 600 available. There are also a few of the electronic toys from the Sport included such as the automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and rear parking sensors.

Priced from £20,995 the new Icon sits between the regular 1.5i SE-L Nav (£20,195) and the 1.5i Sport Nav (£22,795). At the time of writing, to buy the front and rear spoilers in black, plus a set of the 16" gunmetal alloys, would cost £942.20. Also worth mentioning is the £550 worth of mica paint included free of charge. There is a nice saving even before you add in the heated leather seats and extra equipment.
Mazda MX-5 Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition
Mazda MX-5 ND5RC Icon Special Edition