Today marks the official preview of the 2014 New York Motor Show, and the world’s automotive media have gathered in their masses to witness launches from major automakers across the globe. This year is extra special, as Mazda celebrates the 25th anniversary of the MX-5 – the world’s best selling sports car.

The Mazda MX-5 was first launched in 1989 at the Chicago Motor Show – it has since gone from strength to strength. The combination of its affordability, handling, performance and style has helped Mazda sell nearly 1 million MX-5s over the years – making it the best-selling sports car ever made. To celebrate its 25th anniversary this year, Mazda have unveiled a new, special edition version of the MX-5. Mazda claims that the new MX-5 – which will be released next year – is the best version yet, combining all the best features of its predecessors.

The 2015 special edition MX-5 will feature a new, upgraded engine, with the 2.0 Litre unit available in either a six-speed manual or auto transmission, producing 158 bhp. Engineers at the Japanese firm have confirmed that the engines in the 25th anniversary edition will feature hand-selected parts – and drivers can expect better acceleration throughout the revs range.

And the changes don’t stop there – the special edition MX-5 will sport an upgraded interior with specially embossed leather seats. The new MX-5 also features a unique two-tone paint scheme and limited edition 17-inch alloy wheels. Mazda will be selling the 25th anniversary MX-5 in one colour only – soul-red metallic with a contrasting black roof – setting the special edition version apart from the crowd.

Mazda have announced that the MX-5 will retain much of the original’s handling with the new “skyactiv” chassis. The real-wheel-drive sports car features a unique 50:50 weight distribution, meaning that the MX-5 is extremely responsive to steering input – making for excellent handling. This rare balance, considered the holy grail of the car industry, is achieved through the placement of the engine slightly behind the front axle – making the Mazda a front-mid engined car. The new MX-5 also boasts a lower centre of gravity, further enhancing handling.

A UK release date for the MX-5 has yet to be confirmed – however, fans of this legendary sports car are sure to be waiting in a long queue to get their hands on this little gem. The special edition version is expected to be priced around the £23,000 mark when it eventually goes on sale.

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