Mazda has a long history of special-edition MX-5s. Earlier this year, Mazda launched the stylish Mazda MX-5 Eunos Edition inspired by Mazda's luxury Eunos brand. The catch? It was only sold in Japan. Now, Mazda has launched another limited-edition MX-5 Miata dubbed the 'MX-5 R-Sport.' Sadly, it's going to be forbidden fruit in the US because it's being sold exclusively in the UK. Based on the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Sport, the MX-5 R Sport is limited to only 150 units.

On the outside, the R-Sport is finished in a new Polymetal Grey color introduced for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 range, paired with contrasting piano black side mirrors. A grey soft-top hood and 16-inch gunmetal alloy wheels round off the exterior highlights. Inside, the MX-5 R-Sport features burgundy Nappa leather seats with silver stitching.

Standard equipment for the MX-5 R-Sport includes navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, heated seats and climate control. Since it's based on the UK Sport model, the 2020 Mazda MX-5 R-Sport is powered by a 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G 1.5 liter four-cylinder engine producing 132 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. In the US, however, the only engine option for the Mazda MX-5 is a more powerful 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four good for 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque.

"I'm delighted that we can offer an exclusive MX-5 Convertible model to our customers. With it joining the rest of the Convertible and RF models in the line-up, we now have a great choice of MX-5s in our updated 2020 Mazda MX-5 range, which means that anyone wanting to drive a distinctive and stylish roadster can find what they need," said Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director at Mazda Motors UK.

"When it comes to driver engagement, the current generation MX-5 has already established itself as a benchmark sports car, and with the 2020 Mazda MX-5, and now the R-Sport special edition, we continue to offer one of the most exciting and satisfying to drive cars money can buy. The MX-5 is Mazda's brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products, its fun to drive character has strengthened the bond between Mazda and its customers for over 30 years and the 2020 model continues this unswerving dedication to delivering an affordable world-class sports car, while the R-Sport continues our long heritage of offering uniquely styled limited-edition versions."

Pricing for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 R-Sport starts at £27,700 ($34,392).