Mazda3 back in Sport Black for 2018

3:17 pm, April 3, 2018

BACK in April 2016, Mazda introduced a limited-edition Sport Black trim level to the 3 range – restricted to 800 examples.

Now, two years on, it’s available again.

The Mazda3 Sport Black brings unique visual touches to the hatchback, including a Jet Black roof spoiler and matching door mirrors, along with 18-inch grey alloy wheels.

There’s also a choice of premium paint finishes at no extra cost – namely Soul Red Metallic, Snowflake White Pearlescent and Eternal Blue Mica.

Just 700 units of the UK-exclusive Mazda3 Sport Black will be available this time around.

As the Sport Black is based on the existing SE-L Nav grade, standard equipment includes a heated steering wheel, Bose surround-sound audio system, seven-inch touchscreen infotainment display with navigation, cruise control, and dual-zone climate control.

It also gains some extra gear, such as a reversing camera, adaptive LED headlights and keyless entry.

Just one engine option is available – a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit developing 118bhp and 210Nm of torque, paired to a six-speed manual gearbox. It makes the hatchback capable of 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds before hitting a 121mph top speed.

Jeremy Thomson, managing director of Mazda UK, said: ‘The Mazda3 is a core model in our line-up, one that continues to be popular with both private and fleet customers.

‘The Sport Black special edition delivers even more value to our customers, and I’m sure its winning combination of extra equipment, distinctive styling enhancements and competitive price will make this a very popular addition to the already extensive Mazda3 range.’

The Mazda3 Sport Black is on sale now, with prices starting from £21,595 for the limited-edition hatchback.

It’s not the first Sport Black model introduced this year by the Japanese firm. Just recently, it released the trim on the 2 supermini, bringing similar visual touches to the smaller car – 500 units of which will be made.