Mazda will unveil its 2012 MX-5 Miata Special Edition at the upcoming 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

The limited-run model features a black-only Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) as well as other exclusivities such as two new exterior colours, new 17″ black gunmetal alloy wheels, black exterior accents, black heated leather seats and piano black interior finishes.

The special edition will be available with either the six-speed manual gearbox with or a six-speed Sport automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, both linked to the regular 167bhp 2.0L four-cylinder engine.

Both Premium and Suspension packages will be standard on the MX-5 Special Edition and include features such as a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, Bilstein shocks and a sport-tuned suspension.

Mazda said production of the MX-5 Miata Special Edition would be limited to 450 units with pricing to be announced.

While the Tokyo Motor Show is a stage for the world’s manufacturer to strut their production models, the Tokyo Auto Salon, which will take place in Chiba, Japan, from January 13 to 15, allow designers and engineers to stretch their legs with custom hardware.

Mazda was the first to announce its line-up for the auto salon, led by the new CX-5 that will be launched in Japan next spring. The new compact-size crossover will be shown in two versions: the standard model, and a customized special edition sporting red bodywork colour, matte-black alloy wheels and a slightly lower body height.

The facelifted Mazda2, or Demio as it is known in Japan, will also be on display with two customized versions. The 13-Skyactiv-2012 features red paintwork with chrome accents, synthetic suede in the seat covers, door trims, roof, parts of the steering wheel and A-pillars and high-gloss centre console and door panels.

The Smart Stylish-2012 Mazda2 is based on the Smart Stylish special edition of the production car, but features a lowered body height and an M’z bodykit comprised of a front spoiler, side skirts and rear underskirt.

“Jimba-Ittai” is Japanese for “rider and horse as one”. It’s also the moniker Mazda gave to the endurance-racing version of the MX-5 (or Roadster in Japan). The NR-A specification model gets 16” Enkei alloys with Bridgestone tyres, Bilstein dampers, Endless brake pads, a ride height lowered by 20 mm and is painted in the exclusive colour used by the Mazda team that enters the four-hour race for the media.

The MX-5 Black Tuned-2012 is based on the Black Tuned special edition and sports lightweight BBS alloy wheels, height adjustable Bilstein dampers, Brembo brakes and Recaro seats.

A sport version of the recently facelifted Mazda Axela, the Mazda Axela Sport 20S-Skyactiv-2012 comes with additional aerodynamic parts such as a front skirt, rear bumper and a rear roof spoiler on the outside, and black leather upholstery along with piano black finish for the centre console, the instrument panel cover and the door switch panels on the inside.

Having already announced the Spirit R version of the RX-8 which ends production next year, Mazda will display a model based on the rotary-engined sports car’s final edition with the 6-speed manual gearbox. In addition to the base specification, it will sport 20” BBS alloys, Brembo brakes and rotors and a 20 mm drop in ride height.

Two MPVs complete Mazda’s range for the Tokyo Salon. The first is the Premacy MPV in 20S Prestige Style-2012 guise with redesigned bumpers and headlights, a new rear wing, 19” Weds alloy wheels and chrome accents, while the second is the Biante Granz-2012 tuned model with a Kenstyle bodykit, 20” Work alloy wheels, Grace seat upholstery and black wood-patterned interior panels.

Mazda Motor Corporation has developed the world’s first passenger vehicle regenerative braking system that uses a capacitor.

The groundbreaking system, which Mazda calls ‘i-ELOOP’ (Intelligent Energy Loop), will begin to appear in Mazda’s vehicles in 2012.

Mazda’s regenerative braking system is unique because it uses a capacitor, which is an electrical component that temporarily stores large volumes of electricity.

Compared to batteries, capacitors can be charged and discharged rapidly and are resistant to deterioration through prolonged use.

‘i-ELOOP’ efficiently converts the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity as it decelerates, and uses the electricity to power the climate control, audio system and numerous other electrical components.

Regenerative braking systems are growing in popularity as a fuel saving technology. They use an electric motor or alternator to generate electricity as the vehicle decelerates, thereby recovering a portion of the vehicle’s kinetic energy.

Regenerative braking systems in hybrid vehicles generally use a large electric motor and dedicated battery. Mazda examined automobile accelerating and decelerating mechanisms, and developed a highly efficient regenerative braking system that rapidly recovers a large amount of electricity every time the vehicle decelerates. Unlike hybrids, Mazda’s system also avoids the need for a dedicated electric motor and battery.

‘i-ELOOP’ features a new 12-25V variable voltage alternator, a low-resistance electric double layer capacitor and a DC/DC converter.

‘i-ELOOP’ starts to recover kinetic energy the moment the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal and the vehicle begins to decelerate. The variable voltage alternator generates electricity at up to 25V for maximum efficiency before sending it to the Electric Double Layer Capacitor (EDLC) for storage.

The capacitor, which has been specially developed for use in a vehicle, can be fully charged in seconds.

The DC/DC converter steps down the electricity from 25V to 12V before it is distributed directly to the vehicle’s electrical components. The system also charges the vehicle battery as necessary.

‘i-ELOOP’ operates whenever the vehicle decelerates, reducing the need for the engine to burn extra fuel to generate electricity. As a result, in stop-start driving conditions, fuel economy improves by approximately 10%.

‘i-ELOOP’ also works in conjunction with Mazda’s unique ‘i-stop’ idling stop technology to extend the period that the engine can be shut off.

Mazda has recently unveiled its all-new 2013 CX-5 compact SUV at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

As the new kid on the block, the 2013 CX-5 had to do more than simply dress to impress on its first day in class. The vehicle needed to walk and talk that it belonged with its peers, but at the same time still evoke a level of emotional connection and driving passion worthy of the Mazda badge. This begins with SkyActiv Technology.

Developed solely by Mazda, SkyActiv Technology is not a package or trim level, but an all encompassing and the CX-5 is the first vehicle to receive all SkyActiv components.

The CX-5 is powered by the SkyActiv-G 2.0L petrol engine that delivers 155bhp and 203Nm of torque mated to either either the SkyActiv-MT six-speed manual or SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic.

Following the Mazda Minagi concept car that was unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the CX-5 becomes the first production model to feature Mazda’s new design theme, KODO or “Soul of Motion”.

The CX-5′s sculptured body features taut, compact lines. Shapely front and rear fenders hug the sporty SUV’s available 17- and 19-inch rubber-and-rim packages, projecting a wide, low-slung stance. A sweeping swoosh line bridges the four corners with sleek, artistic expression.

Topside, a pronounced crease begins at the A-pillar and darts sharply across the side panels, eventually wrapping itself around stylized tail lamps. The sharply raked A-pillar is matched by the angles of the C-pillar and rear window, topping an aggressive profile which, at the same time, affords all occupants one of the widest fields of view in the segment.

All these cuts in the sheet metal, the rounded surfaces and edgy creases, are as much for finesse as they are for function. With a targeted coefficient of drag of 0.33, the CX-5 aims to be the most aerodynamic compact SUV in the field.

Just as the exterior stirs the soul, the CX-5′s interior sparks the senses. Intuitive, with a multitude of frequently-used controls within reach, there is nothing you can’t do while ensconced in utmost comfort. Long and luxury-laced, the CX-5 sits on a segment-leading 2,700 mm wheelbase, seats 5 and offers a cabin that is undeniably flexible in order to accommodate the demands of today’s active lifestyles of all work and all play.

The rear cargo room is not only cavernous but clever. With a three-piece independent 40/20/40-split fold-flat second row, the CX-5 shows that whatever is thrown its way, it will catch, but with room left to spare. A single-action topside button releases the left- and right-side seats to fold down while a looped handle frees the middle seat, which also folds flat.

While the driver delights in all the glee of driving one of the most dynamically fun and satisfying compact SUVs on the road, there is no reason passengers can’t be allowed to enjoy the ride as well.

The legroom for the second row is ample at 998 mm with an equally generous knee clearance of 66 mm. The wide cavity under the front seats also offers abundant rear passenger foot space and can be used as an additional cargo room to hide personal belongings. Rear headroom is 990 mm for vehicles not equipped with a moonroof.

Up front, both the driver and passenger can enjoy 1,018 mm of headroom, 1,460 mm for the broadest of shoulders and 1,041 mm to stretch their legs. 6- and 8-way power-adjustable seats will be standard on all but the entry-level models.

Whether battling those curvaceous roads alone or rolling through town with a full house, commanding the sound studio on wheels is easily within reach for either the driver or front passenger.

An all-new 5.8” touch screen becomes the centre of attention with intuitive phone, audio and navigation functions. Streamlined steering wheel controls also enable a more straightforward operation of the infotainment system.

Other available features on the all-new 2013 CX-5 includes Bluetooth® phone, an audio connectivity, an iPod® audio playback as well as a nine-speaker Bose® Centerpoint® Surround Sound system with AudioPilot®.

Proving that good things can come in small packages, Mazda has unveiled its Turbo2 concept at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Although Mazda is keeping tight lipped on the subject, the Turbo2 could stand as an early preview of a performance-minded MazdaSpeed2 model.

The Mazda Turbo2 is outfitted with a MazdaSpeed3 MZR 2.3L Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) turbo engine. As a result, the Turbo2 boasts an impressive 263bhp and 380Nm of torque.

To ensure the car stops and turns as well as it accelerates, Mazda has fitted the Turbo2 with 13” ventilated Brembo discs, H&R coil-over suspension kit, Corksport sway bars and 17” OZ Racing Wheels wrapped in Yokohama ADVAN Neova 215/40R17 performance tyres.

The exterior is finished in Sonic White tri-coat, offset by Brilliant Black panels and neon-coloured highlights.

Inside, the seats are done in black leather with yellow Turbo2 logos and yellow seat piping, and a data acquisition display ensures that you can keep track of your lap times.

Following a solitary image teased a few days ago, Mazda has finally taken the wraps off the special MX-5 Miata Spyder at the 2011 SEMA Show.

Designed by Mazda’s North American operations, the MX-5 Miata Spyder features a single-panel grenadine-red soft-top made by Haartz Corporation.

Its design, a collaborative effort between MNAO Design and Magna Car Top Systems, offers an even lower slung stance of the MX-5 without sacrificing headroom.

The exterior of the MX-5 Miata Spyder is painted Stratosphere White and features a Yokohama rubber-and-rims set of AO48 225/45R17 performance tyres matched with 17” wheels in Gun Metal Metallic.

The cabin area is accentuated by tanned Saddle black-leather seats with Aqua leather accents and Coal Ash suede inserts.

Subtle Spider Silk Gray Metallic-colored trim pieces on the doors and dash panels tastefully adorn the mostly black interior, which is finished off with customized floor mats by Star West. A MazdaSpeed short-throw shifter adds a tasty reminder to the MX-5′s motorsports pedigree.

Under the hood, the MX-5 Miata Spyder is powered by the same 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine fueled by BP’s isobutanol – a biofuel that offers top notch performance with little impact on the environment.

And to further the company’s “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” effort, the MX-5 Miata Spyder also features a lightweight lithium ion battery, made by Braille Battery.

A Racing Beat header, intake and exhaust muffler as well as a MazdaSpeed coil over kit and Brembo brakes complete the vehicle’s mechanics.

Does the MX-5 Miata Spyder have a chance at production? Well, probably not the isobutanol powertrain, but a lighter model with a similar top configuration might have a shot.

As Mazda’s design director, Derek Jenkins, notes ” And because the stock models are extraordinarily versatile, who’s to say some elements of these SEMA concepts can’t be ready for public consumption?”

Mazda has teased us with two images of concept cars that are coming to 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

And unlike many of its competitors, Mazda has taken a more circumspect approach to unveiling its 2011 SEMA Show-bound sportsters ahead of next week’s event.

On its Twitter feed, the automaker posted links to single images of the MX-5 Spyder and the Turbo2 on its Flickr page.

Even though no specifications have been released yet, some details can be extracted from these pictures.

The Mazda MX-5 Spyder appears to be lowered and features a stretched canvas roof. A front spoiler and larger brakes also can be seen.

The Mazda2 based Turbo2, on the other hand, will be presented with a modest body kit and a bright exterior graphic design. Mazda says the Turbo2 uses “one of our most powerful turbocharged engines in our lightest platform.”

Sounds too good to be true? We’ll bring you more details of both cars when they debut in Las Vegas next week, so stay tuned!

Mazda has revealed the first images of its Takeri next-generation mid-sized sedan concept, which is set to make its global premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show on 30th November 2011.

Like the new Mazda CX-5 SUV (which was shown at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show a few months ago), the Takeri concept car benefits from Mazda’s new design language, Kodo – Soul of Motion, bringing a new level of strength and allure to mid-sized saloon styling.

The company will also showcase its first regenerative braking system as part of the world premiere of the Mazda Takeri, which is also equipped with a 2.2L SkyActiv-D diesel engine with 173bhp and 429Nm of torque and an i-stop idling stop system.

Currently, there’s no further information on the Takeri at this stage but stay tuned as we’ll bring you more details when the doors open at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show!

To commemorate the departure of the company’s RX-8, Mazda has announced one last special edition in Japan dubbed the Spirit R.

The car will be based on the manual version RX-8 Type RS and the automatic Type E and will be limited to only 1,000 units.

The two model variants of the RX-8 Spirit R will carry distinct styling features including unique badges, fog lights and rear combination lights decked with black bezels, red painted brake callipers, a piano-black trim for the transmission tunnel, and a choice of three exterior colours;  Aluminium Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica, and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

On top of that, each model will have their own features. The RX-8 Type RS adds in Recaro bucket seats and a special set of 19″ bronze alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, the RX-8 Type E comes equipped with a black leather treatment on the interior with contrasting red stitching, a new sports suspension, larger brakes, and a set of 18″ alloy in gun metallic finish wrapped in 225/45R18 91W tyres.

The Mazda RX-8 Spirit R will arrive at Japanese dealerships beginning November 2011 till June 2012.

Mazda has released the Mazda Roadster Black Tuned, a special edition version of its iconic lightweight, two-seat, open-top sports car for the Japanese market.

The special edition Roadster (known elsewhere as the Mazda MX-5) is based on the premium ‘RS RHT’ and ‘VS RHT’ model grades that feature Mazda’s groundbreaking power retractable hard top (RHT).

The Black Tuned theme is reflected in stylish special features including a Brilliant Black retractable hard top, and Gun Metallic 17” alloy wheels as well as a unique interior contrasting black leather with sand-coloured stitching.

Buyers will be able to choose from one of the following body colours; Crystal White Pearl Mica, Velocity Red Mica and Green Metallic.

The model comes with a 2.0-litre DOHC engine matched to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic transmission.