Mazda announces 100th Anniversary Special Editions

MAZDA Australia has announced a new special edition series designed to commemorate its centenary as a company, a milestone the Japanese manufacturer reached in January of this year.

Aptly named the 100^th Anniversary Special Edition series, Mazda will roll out a special edition of every one of its models from the MX-5 sportscar to the CX-9 seven-seat SUV, all adorned in a distinctive new colourway which will pay homage to the brand’s first passenger car, the R360 Coupe.

The R360 first appeared in 1960 powered by a tiny 356cc two-cylinder petrol engine and – on the high-grade model – brandished a tasteful white and burgundy two-tone colour scheme.

When the 100^th Anniversary Special Edition series cars arrive in Australia later this year, all of them will mimic the high-grade R360 Coupe’s style with burgundy interiors and ‘Snowflake White Pearl Mica’ exterior paint, while the MX-5 will take things a step further with a burgundy roof.

While exact specifications are yet to be revealed, GoAuto understands the series will be based on the higher spec variants of each model, all adorning unique 100th Anniversary Special Edition badging inside and out – front wings, key fob, wheel caps, headrests and floor mats.

“The 100th Anniversary Special Edition models reflect Mazda’s history of taking on challenges and act as a reminder of its car-making roots by adopting a similar motif in red and white,” a spokesperson said via a statement.

“Inside, the floor carpet, floor mats and seats use the same rich burgundy that was introduced with the Mazda3.

“The 100th Anniversary Special Edition series is designed to express gratitude to the millions of people who have had dealings with Mazda over the years and a pledge that though it may aim for the stars, the company will never forget its roots in the car-making business.”

Much like the specification levels, pricing is yet to be announced although it would be safe to assume pricing for all models will be towards the higher end of their respective ranges.