By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National September 18, 2009Vehicle Overview
The 2009 MX-5 Miata was technically the 20th anniversary model because the roadster hit the market in 1989 as an early 1990 model. Much has changed over the decades, including the disappearance of the Miata name from the car's exterior in 2006 as part of its third-generation redesign. The Miata name is back and what hasn't changed is the formula: small, lightweight and affordable.
New for 2010
There are no significant changes for 2010.
Exterior
Last year's restyling extended the nose lower and made the grille larger and smile-shaped. The headlights became shapelier. The rear bumper became deeper and wider, with a more prominent crease on the side, and the tailpipes were made flush with the bumper.
- Manual soft-top
- Standard 16-inch wheels
- Optional 17-inch wheels
- Optional power-retractable hardtop
- Optional high-intensity-discharge headlights
Interior
The car is small, but the two-seat configuration provides more driver space than you might expect.
- Standard air conditioning
- Standard leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Standard cloth upholstery
- Optional leather seats
- Optional heated seats
- Optional steering-wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls
Under the Hood
A 2.0-liter four-cylinder powers the Miata with 158 horsepower when teamed with the optional six-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the five- or six-speed manual, it produces 167 hp. The difference comes from a higher redline with the manual: 7,200 rpm, rather than 6,700 rpm with the automatic.
- Rear-wheel drive
- Intake runner tuned to provide a sporty sound
- Dual exhausts
Safety
The MX-5 has the mandated front airbags, and the passenger's airbag can be deactivated.
- Standard side-impact airbags
- Standard antilock disc brakes
- Optional electronic stability system with traction control
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Mike Hanley | Cars.com National | October 20, 2010 |
| Joe Wiesenfelder | Cars.com National | December 30, 2009 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | September 18, 2009 |
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