Mk3.75 (NC-FL2)

Further tweaks to the Mk3 came in 2012 and, although less significant, are still enough to merit this model getting its own informal Mk3.75 designation. Mechanically it was pretty much the same as the Mk3.5 with the stronger engine and minor updates to the ‘by wire’ throttle and brake booster to improve driveability. All 2.0-litre models get the six-speed manual, the PowerShift automatic was also offered with this engine.

The way to tell a Mk3.75 from the earlier Mk3.5 is to look at the side trims either side of the grille – where the Mk3.5 has a leaf-shaped aperture, the newer car has more of an upright air intake style, while the grille is also a more angular shape with a more pronounced ‘vee’ shape along its lower edge. Other updates included improved pedestrian protection through a pop-up bonnet. By this stage the soft-top was only offered on the 1.8-litre engine, with all 2.0-litre models equipped with the folding hardtop.

A number of desirable special editions were introduced in this period, including the particularly attractive 25th Anniversary Edition with Mazda’s signature Soul Red paintwork, contrasting black paint for the folding hardtop, pale leather upholstery and built-in sat-nav as standard. 750 of the 1,000 built were sold here in the UK market. Other attractive versions included the Sport Graphite with its combination of Aquatic Blue or Zeal Red paint and contrasting grey hardtop, and the Sport Venture, with 17-inch wheels and choice of two special colours.